The Relationship Between Peripheral Eosinophilia, Lower Respiratory Tract Pathogens, Age at First Pneumonia, and Malnutrition in Children with Non-cystic Fibrosis Bronchiectasis

OBJECTIVE: (HI) frequently isolated from respiratory cultures. Recent adult studies have suggested a potential role for eosinophils in the frequency of pulmonary exacerbations and in lung function decline. This study aimed to evaluate the relationships among peripheral eosinophilia, lower respiratory tract pathogens, age at first pneumonia, and malnutrition in children with non-CF bronchiectasis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In this retrospective study, children who were diagnosed with non-CF bronchiectasis were grouped based on nutritional status, eosinophilia, age at first pneumonia, and the most frequently isolated microorganisms. Clinical outcomes were compared across groups. RESULTS: = 0.040). Patients who experienced their first episode of pneumonia before the age of two had more frequent exacerbations and were diagnosed with bronchiectasis at an earlier age. CONCLUSION: Non-CF bronchiectasis in childhood may be preventable and/or non-progressive when diagnosed early. Clinical features such as malnutrition, eosinophilia, PA isolation, and early-onset pneumonia may help identify children who could benefit from closer clinical monitoring. Further pediatric studies are needed to validate these associations.