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Rhinovirus significantly increased risk for asthma symptoms in children

Human rhinovirus in children with asthma was associated with a significantly increased risk for day-to-day asthma and respiratory symptoms, according to recent study results.

Researchers in Australia conducted a 10-week study of 67 children with asthma (mean age, 8.6 years; 64% male). Questionnaires were completed, and researchers collected dust and blood samples, supplied materials and taught sampling and storage methods to participants at their homes. Participants collected samples, including nasal wash fluid and exhaled breath, twice weekly for polymerase chain reaction-based detection of viral RNA and lung function measurements. Medication use was recorded as were asthma and respiratory symptoms in the previous 3 days. Atopy, mite allergen exposure and vitamin D levels also were measured.

Human rhinoviruses (hRVs) were detected in 25.5% of 1,232 nasal samples and 11.5% of breath samples. Less than 3% of samples contained non-hRV. There was an association between hRV in nasal samples and asthma symptoms of cough and phlegm (OR=2; 95% CI, 1.4-2.86), wheeze and chest tightness (OR=2.34; 95% CI, 1.55-3.52) and cold symptoms, both at reporting and 3 to 4 days later.

“No differences were found between the three hRV genotypes (hRV-A, hRV-B and hRV-C) in symptom risk,” the researchers wrote.

The association between viruses and asthma symptoms was modified by inhaled corticosteroid use history, but not by atopic status, mite allergen exposure or vitamin D levels.

“This study identifies the clinical significance of hRVs in day-to-day asthma and respiratory symptoms in children but does not confirm the role any of the host, viral or environmental factors thought to modify the role of hRV in patients with acute asthma exacerbations,” the researchers concluded. “A better understanding of the role of viruses presents new challenges for longitudinally monitoring both the causal factors and the associated clinical outcomes.”

Disclosure: See the study for a full list of relevant financial disclosures.