RISK FACTORS FOR BRONCHIOLITIS HOSPITALIZATIONS IN CHILDREN WITH CHRONIC DISEASES

Background: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) bronchiolitis is the most common lower respiratory tract disorder causing hospitalization in infants. Palivizumab has shifted the profile of the hospitalized population away from premature infants and towards those with chronic morbidities who are not eligible for prophylaxis. Aim: To characterize RSV bronchiolitis hospitalizations in infants with chronic diseases, compared to otherwise healthy infants. Methods: A four consecutive RSV season retrospective analysis of patients younger than two years admitted with bronchiolitis. Background demographic and clinical data, including vital sign measurements, laboratory tests, and pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) admissions during hospitalization, were analyzed. Results: Of 1124 hospitalizations due to RSV bronchiolitis, 244 (22%) were in infants with chronic diseases. Although 20/1124 qualified for RSV prophylaxis, only 8 had been vaccinated. Compared to otherwise healthy infants, children with chronic diseases had longer hospitalizations, median 4 days (IQR 4-7) vs 3 days (2-5), p