Abstract
Background/Aim: While short-term studies reported a growth retardation in children with asthma treated with inhaled steroids, long-term studies described attainment of adult heights within the target height range. In the present work, we describe the growth pattern of children with asthma. Methods: In 58 children with asthma, we compared the height at age 3 years with the height at a mean age of 7.5 years during a 12-month study period. Results: No differences in growth could be detected within the study year. Children in the lowest tertile but not in other tertiles for asthma severity score and inhaled steroid dose showed a significant decrease in height standard deviation scores from age 3 to age 7.5 years. Conclusion: The decrease in height standard deviation scores might be explained by undertreatment or an individual sensitivity to inhaled steroids.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 234-238 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Hormone Research |
Volume | 59 |
Issue number | 5 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 6 May 2003 |