Growth effects of asthma and asthma therapy

A small effect (1 cm) of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) on the 1-year growth of asthmatic children was observed in studies published during the 1990s. A high volume of literature published during the past year confirmed mild growth suppression at one year, but provided information on the effects of longer-term treatment. These developments are important, since the effect was previously unknown and the findings have major implications for asthma caregivers and the communication that they have with asthmatic children and their parents. The possibility that this is an idiosyncratic effect received conflicting support. These studies collectively provide support for ICS use and ease the minds of caregivers, parents, and children. The risk of growth retardation can be lessened and managed by the employment of several simple strategies: (1) monitor growth; (2) use the minimal effective dose; (3) optimize steroid-sparing strategies (smoke and allergen environmental controls, vaccinate for influenza, diagnose and treat rhinitis, sinusitis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease, use add-on therapy with a second controller rather than doubling the ICS dose if control is inadequate); and (4) use spacing devices (for pressurized metered-dose inhalers) and mouth rinsing. Open and accurate communication with patients and parents about this possible effect is essential to minimize nonadherence. Ultimately, no child whose disease severity warrants ICS therapy should be denied the tremendous benefits that this therapy can provide because of relatively minor concerns about growth effects. (C) 2002 Lippincott Williams Wilkins, Inc.