Study of Airway Microbiome, Viruses, and Immune Responses in Children Under 5 With Protracted Bacterial Bronchitis and Effects of Azithromycin

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to explore the relationship between the airway microbiome, virome composition, immune responses, and respiratory health in children diagnosed with protracted bacterial bronchitis PBB, a condition marked by a persistent cough lasting more than four weeks. The study also evaluates how treatment with azithromycin interacts with the microbiome, virome, and immune biomarkers in these children. Protracted bacterial bronchitis can lead to recurrent infections and airway damage, and this study seeks to better understand factors influencing disease progression and complications. Children under five years old with PBB will be followed over one year in a longitudinal design. During five routine consultations and any exacerbation episodes, oropharyngeal swabs will be collected to analyze microbiome composition using sequencing methods, identify respiratory viruses via molecular techniques, and measure immune biomarkers at RNA and protein levels. These samples will also allow microbial cultures to be studied. Standard care with azithromycin will be observed in this context to see its effects on the airway environment. Participants will attend up to six visits over the year, including routine and exacerbation-related visits. At each visit, respiratory samples will be collected for detailed analysis. The study will measure changes in microbiome and virus prevalence, immune markers, and clinical symptoms throughout the year. This approach aims to improve understanding of PBB development and progression, potentially guiding better diagnostics and treatments for young children with this condition.

Airway Microbiome of Patients With Protracted Bacterial Bronchitis