Atopic Dermatitis as a Precursor to Early Onset of Recurrent Wheeze, Bronchiolitis, and Childhood Asthma

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Childhood asthma frequently escapes timely diagnosis, a consequence of inadequate parental education, societal prejudices, and health-care professionals’ limited knowledge. Bringing attention to atopic dermatitis (AD) as an early indicator of childhood asthma can enhance awareness about the elevated risk of recurrent wheezing, bronchiolitis, and asthma in children, thereby advancing their care and treatment. AIM: The objective of this study is to investigate the correlation between AD and the occurrence of recurrent wheezing, bronchiolitis, as well as asthma, in children aged 0–3 years. The findings of this research aim to contribute to early detection practices and guide the implementation of suitable treatment strategies for this vulnerable age group. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this study, retrospective data were gathered from health records at the Pediatric Primary Health Care Practice - “Vitalino” in Veles, North Macedonia. The analysis encompassed 414 children aged 0–3 years, spanning the years 2019–2022. The primary focus of the investigation was on children exhibiting early- onset AD and its association with recurrent wheezing, as well as bronchiolitis and the development of early childhood asthma. RESULTS: The conducted statistical analyses, including measures such as prevalence, odds ratio, and multiple regression, revealed a significant association between AD and the early occurrence of recurrent wheezing. In addition, the analyses demonstrated a noteworthy association not only between AD and early recurrent wheezing but also between AD and childhood asthma. Moreover, a significant connection was identified between bronchiolitis and childhood asthma. These findings contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the complex interrelationships among AD, bronchiolitis, and the early onset of childhood asthma. CONCLUSION: This study confirms that children under the age of 3 years who have early-onset AD are significantly more susceptible to recurrent wheezing and asthma. It is crucial to identify AD as a potential early indicator of childhood asthma. This knowledge can enhance awareness among health-care professionals and parents, leading to earlier detection of asthma symp to more effective management strategies for these young patients.