Effects of long-term inhaled corticosteroids on growth velocity and adult height in children with asthma: a systematic review and meta-analysis - Report - MDSpire
Clinical Report: Impact of Prolonged Inhaled Corticosteroid Use on Growth Rate
Overview
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effects of prolonged inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) use on linear growth velocity and final height in children with asthma. The findings indicate a non-significant reduction in growth velocity, with a statistically significant decrease observed when excluding high-risk bias studies.
Background
Inhaled corticosteroids are the cornerstone of asthma management in children, yet concerns about their impact on growth can affect treatment adherence. Previous studies have yielded inconsistent results regarding the effects of ICS on growth.
Data Highlights
Measure
Mean Difference (MD)
95% Confidence Interval (CI)
Linear growth velocity (ICS vs. controls)
-0.38 cm/year
-0.84 to 0.07
Linear growth velocity (after removing high risk studies)
-0.59 cm/year
-1.10 to -0.07
Growth velocity in school-age children
-0.50 cm/year
-0.96 to -0.04
Reduction in adult height
-1.20 cm
-1.90 to -0.50
Key Findings
The primary analysis showed no statistically significant decrease in linear growth velocity among children receiving long-term ICS therapy.
Excluding studies with high risk of bias revealed a statistically significant reduction in growth velocity.
Among school-age children, ICS treatment was associated with a reduced growth velocity.
Limited long-term data suggested a small reduction in adult height associated with ICS use.
Clinical Implications
Clinicians should monitor growth in children receiving ICS therapy.
Conclusion
The review indicates that while ICS may have a minor impact on growth velocity, the evidence does not support significant long-term growth suppression.
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