Risk factors for wheezing in children - the role of respiratory viruses

Abstract

Background: Infections with respiratory viruses, particularly human rhinovirus (HRV) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), are major causes of lower respiratory tract (LTR) illnesses associated with wheezing in children. Asthma is the most common chronic disease in children, and it is thought that environmental factors acting early in life, including respiratory viral infections, interacting with specific genes, are key events for the development of chronic disease. Infections with both RSV and rhinovirus early in life have been associated with persistent wheezing and asthma in children, and are a known cause of exacerbations of asthma in those with established disease.Methods/Data base: A review of the literature and own studies.Results: Studies performed in different areas of the world indicate that there are differences in the distribution of viruses and in the association of viruses with wheezing in temperate areas as compared to subtropical environments.Conclusions: Preventive treatment for infections with RSV or rhinoviruses, when available, will probably have a major impact on childhood wheezing and asthma.