Correlation between impulse oscillometry parameters and test for respiratory and asthma control in kids (TRACK) in asthma control of preschoolers with asthma

Abstract

Little research has been conducted to evaluate the correlation between impulse oscillometry (IOS), Childhood Asthma Control Test (C-ACT), and Test for Respiratory and Asthma Control in Kids (TRACK). This study was conducted at China Medical University Hospital between September 1, 2019, and March 31, 2021. Children aged 2-6 years who had been diagnosed with asthma with acute exacerbation were enrolled and followed-up until the end of the study. Correlations between the parameters of IOS, C-ACT and TRACK were assessed. The validity and reliability of TRACK were verified. A total of 114 children with asthma and acute exacerbations were recruited. Their mean age was 4.1±1.1 years, and 60.5% were males. After a year of treatment, the change of R5-R20 from baseline 0.64±0.38kPa/L/s to 12th month 0.48±0.2kPa/L/s (p=0.022). TRACK and C-ACT scores were significantly correlated during the observation period. R5-R20 in IOS at baseline and at the 12th month of follow-up as well as the change in IOS parameters were significantly associated with C-ACT (p=0.003, 0.015, and 0.001, respectively). R5% and R5-R20 changes in IOS were associated with TRACK (p=0.04 and 0.025, respectively). Sensitivity and specificity of TRACK were 80.8% (67.5-90.4) and 100% (94.1-100), respectively, with cut-off points >95 and AUC 93.8%. TRACK score appears to have a stronger association with the IOS parameter than C-ACT score. Our findings indicate that TRACK is a valid tool for assessing asthma control in preschool children.