Abstract
Introduction and objectivesWheezing (RW) infants with a positive asthma predictive index (API+) have a lower lung function as measured by forced expiratory techniques. Tidal flow-volume loops (TFVL) are easy to perform in infants, and sedation is not necessary. Materials and methodsA total of 216 wheezing infants were successfully measured, and 183 of them were followed for over a year. TFVL loops were classified into one of three categories depending of their geometric shape (symmetric, convex, and concave). Respiratory rate (Rr), presence of API+, and the number of exacerbations during the following year were also recorded. ResultsChildren with concave loops had more exacerbations in the following year (OR = 6.8 [IC95% 3.33;13.91]). Infants API + were also significantly more related to concave loops (OR = 10.02 [IC 95% 4.53; 22.15]). Rr was higher in infants with concave loops (44+/−15.5 vs. 36.6 +/−12.6; p < 0.01). ConclusionInfants with a concave TFVL have a higher probability of experiencing exacerbations in the following year, and are at a higher risk of suffering asthma.
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