Association of specific viral infections with childhood asthma exacerbations

Hassanzad, Maryam; Nadji, Seyed Alireza; Darougar, Sepideh; Tashayoie-Nejad, Sabereh; Boloursaz, Mohammad Reza; Mahdaviani, Seyed Alireza; Baghaie, Nooshin; Ghaffaripour, Hosseinali; Velayati, Ali Akbar

To explain those patients without a viral agent being isolated in this study, we believe that both the study design and the method used for viral detection influence the frequency of detection of the respiratory viruses. For instance, the highest rates of virus detection are found when samples are taken as soon as symptoms commence. Viral detection becomes difficult by delaying the sampling at a time when virus shedding has been falling. Another limitation is the difficulty of diagnosing exacerbations in young children based on the clinical assessment of symptoms by both parents and clinicians. In addition, seasonal variations may significantly influence the virus identification. Extensive immunologic, virologic, and physiologic investigations during viral infections may lead toward the development of targeted therapy as a goal to personalize therapy for each asthmatic patient in the future.