Hyperventilation syndrome in children with asthma

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Background: Hyperventilation syndrome (HVS) may be associated with asthma. In the absence of a gold standard diagnosis for children, its impact on asthma has been rarely assessed. Objective: to assess the impact of HVS, diagnosed by a positive hyperventilation test (HVT), on the symptoms and lung function of children with asthma and determine the diagnostic value of the Nijmegen questionnaire in comparison to a HVT. Methods: Data from asthmatic children followed in the department of Pediatric Pulmonology of Necker Hospital and explored for HVS were retrospectively analyzed. HVS was diagnosed by a positive HVT. Asthma symptoms and lung function were assessed in children with or without a positive HVT. The sensitivity and specificity of the Nijmegen questionnaire were determined relative to the positivity of a HVT. Results: Data from 112 asthmatic children, median age 13.9 years [11.6–16], were analyzed. Twenty-eight children (25%) had mild or moderate asthma and 84 (75%) severe asthma. The HVT was performed on 108 children and was negative for 34 (31.5%) and positive for 74 (68.5%). The number of asthma exacerbations in the past 12 months, ACT score, and lung function did not differ between children with a positive HVT and a negative HVT. The Nijmegen questionnaire was administered to 103 children. With a threshold of 23, its sensitivity was 56.3% and specificity 56.3%. Conclusion : The symptoms and lung function of adolescents with asthma are not affected by the presence of HVS. The sensitivity and specificity of the Nijmegen questionnaire are low.