title: Treatment of critical status asthmaticus in children.
abstract: Status asthmaticus is complex in its etiology and pathophysiology and may be associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Although there are many therapeutic options, specific inhaled beta 2-agonists, corticosteroids, and oxygen remain the mainstay of therapy. Several new drugs and some older drugs are being used in management; their exact role in treatment at present, however, relies largely on personal preferences. Innovative methods of providing ventilatory support are also emerging. What is quite clear is the fact that involvement of specialists (pulmonologists and intensivists) early in the course of severe status asthmaticus is needed to ensure optimal management and possibly favorable outcomes.
authors.affiliation: Division of Pediatric Critical Care, University of Florida Health Science Center, Jacksonville.
authors.forename: L K
authors.initials: LK
authors.lastname: DeNicola
authors.forename: G F
authors.initials: GF
authors.lastname: Monem
authors.forename: M O
authors.initials: MO
authors.lastname: Gayle
authors.forename: N
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Kissoon
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003422:Critical Care; D016638:Critical Illness; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D010372:Pediatrics; D012121:Respiration, Artificial; D013224:Status Asthmaticus / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000628:therapy*