Authors:
Alblooshi AS, Simpson SJ, Stick SM, Hall GL
Authors notes:
European Respiratory Journal. 2013;42(5):1420-1423
Keywords:
Mannitol challenge test, asthma, lung function, children
Abstract:
The mannitol challenge is an indirect challenge that increases airway surface liquid osmolality resulting in bronchoconstriction.
Mannitol challenge tests are used clinically to diagnose asthma and, in particular, exercise-induced broncoconstriction (EIB) in adults and children above 6 years of age.
To date, mannitol has not been used as a challenge agent in children under 6 years of age and the feasibility and safety of its use in this age group is unknown.
The assessment of bronchial responsiveness in young children is difficult and limited by the cooperation of the child.
The standardisation of lung function tests suitable for use in young children, such as the interrupter technique or the forced oscillation technique (FOT), provide an opportunity to assist in the assessment of bronchial responsiveness in young children and a variety of challenge tests using FOT have been reported in young children.
The aim of this preliminary study was to assess the feasibility and safety of the mannitol challenge test in young children using the FOT as the objective outcome measure.
In summary, this preliminary study reports that mannitol challenge tests appear to be safe and feasible in children aged 4-7 years when combined with FOT to measure bronchial responsiveness.
Further research exploring the role of mannitol testing in young children is required.