BRONCHIAL OBSTRUCTION SYNDROME IN YOUNG CHILDREN: CLINICAL FEATURES, DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

Abstract

Broncho-obstructive syndrome (BOS) is one of the most common symptom complexes accompanying various diseases of the bronchopulmonary system. Its development can be caused by many factors, including congenital and hereditary pathologies of the respiratory system, anomalies in the formation of the bronchi, respiratory distress syndrome of the newborn, primary immunodeficiency states, aspiration of foreign bodies, consequences of perinatal lesions, gastroesophageal reflux, thymus hyperplasia, enlargement of the intrathoracic lymph nodes, tumor processes and other pathological conditions. Clinical manifestations of broncho-obstructive syndrome are characterized by prolonged exhalation, the appearance of expiratory noises (wheezing), varying degrees of respiratory failure, retraction of compliant areas of the chest, as well as possible signs of hypoxemia, including perioral or diffuse cyanosis. Diagnosis of broncho-obstructive syndrome is based on a comprehensive analysis of anamnestic data, clinical symptoms, physical examination results, instrumental and laboratory research methods. The key diagnostic methods are lung auscultation, spirometry assessment, pulse oximetry, chest radiography, bronchoscopy and, if necessary, CT of the respiratory organs. Treatment of broncho-obstructive syndrome should be comprehensive and aimed primarily at eliminating the cause of bronchial obstruction. Therapeutic tactics include bronchodilators, mucolytics, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial drugs (in the presence of infection), as well as oxygen therapy in case of severe hypoxia. Inhaled glucocorticosteroids can be used for chronic forms of BOS, and surgical treatment in case of anatomical anomalies of the respiratory tract. Broncho-obstructive syndrome is a serious clinical condition that requires timely diagnosis and adequate treatment aimed at both relieving symptoms and eliminating the underlying cause of the pathology.