Development of Non-invasive Biomarkers to Direct Individualised Management of Preschool Wheeze

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to find simple, non-invasive bedside tests that can help identify different types of wheezing in preschool children aged 1 to 5 years. Current treatments using inhaled steroids only work well for about 25% of these children who have allergies, so new approaches are needed. The study focuses on testing the accuracy, feasibility, and acceptability of various tests to better match treatment to each child's needs. The study involves several tests including skin prick tests for common allergies, finger prick blood tests, throat and nose swabs to detect bacteria, sputum induction after inhaling a saline mist to collect phlegm, and a lung function test called forced oscillation technique (FOT). A small group of children will also take part in a trial where their treatment is guided by these test results to see if this approach is acceptable to parents and feasible for future studies. Participants will undergo these tests and researchers will monitor their symptoms, medication use, and results from the tests over three years. The study will assess the accuracy of these tests compared to more invasive procedures like bronchoscopy, and measure how well they are accepted by children and parents. Outcome measures include lung function, inflammation markers, infection detection, and symptom control. The total study duration allows for long-term observation and evaluation of these bedside tests as potential tools for personalized treatment planning.

Longitudinal Preschool Wheeze Biomarker Study