The efficacy of fluticasone propionate nebulizer therapy in children with laryngotracheitis

Abstract

Objective. To determine the efficacy of fluticasone propionate (FP) nebulizer therapy in children with laryngotracheitis (LT) Methods. There were children with LT and laryngotracheobronchitis (LTB) aged 0–13 years under observation. 97 children with an initial Westley score 1-5 received nebulized FP 0.5 mg every 6 hours up to no stridor. 104 controls matched by age, sex and severity received systemic glucocorticoids intramuscularly or intravenously. The efficacy of treatment was assessed with a total dose of glucocorticoids used and with duration of treatment up to Westley score 0. We compared effectiveness of therapy in both groups Results. FP treatment was associated with a significant improvement in symptoms in patients with mild LT and LTB (Westley score 1-3) at 6 hours, in patients with moderate LT and LTB (Westley score 4-5) – at 12 hours. The improvement was slower in case of LTB than in LT. A total dose of FP used in children with mild LT and LTB up to Westley score 0 was 0,68±0,42 mg, in children with moderate LT and LTB – 1,1±0,81 mg versus 3,23±3,69 mg / kg and 4,43±3,77 mg / kg respectively as to prednisolone equivalent doses of systemic glucocorticoids in controls. The duration of treatment up to Westley score 0 was shorter in children treated with FP compared to controls Conclusion. Nebulized FP is effective in relieving the symptoms of mild to moderate LT and LTB