Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
3.8
2.1
Journals
Children
Special Issues
Lung Function and Respiratory Diseases in Children and Infants
share announcement

Lung Function and Respiratory Diseases in Children and Infants

A special issue of Children (ISSN 2227-9067). This special issue belongs to the section "Pediatric Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 May 2026 | Viewed by 6400

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Antonella Gambadauro

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Pediatric Unit, Department of Human Pathology in Adult and Developmental Age “Gaetano Barresi”, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98124 Messina, Italy
Interests: pediatric; children; neonates; pulmonology; allergy; immunology; infectious diseases; obstructive sleep apnea; polysomnography; quality of life; allergic rhinitis; allergen; serositis; infection; COVID-19; pediatric diseases; pediatric pulmonology
Dr. Sara Manti

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
Interests: pediatrics; pulmonology; allergy
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Paolo Ruggeri

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Pulmonology Unit, Department of Biomedical, Dental, Morphological and Functional Imaging Sciences (BIOMORF), University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 1, 98124 Messina, Italy
Interests: chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; airway obstruction; pulmonology; allergy
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

It is a pleasure to invite you to contribute to this Special Issue dedicated to exploring lung function in pediatric patients with respiratory diseases.

Respiratory diseases are the main causes of global mortality and morbidity. Lung function testing plays a pivotal role in the diagnosis and monitoring of pediatric lung diseases. Children with respiratory diseases may maintain impaired lung function trajectories into adulthood. Attaining correct lung function in early life is important for respiratory health, and decreased values in childhood may predict higher mortality later in life. A comprehensive analysis of this issue is important to develop strategies for respiratory diseases. 

Dr. Antonella Gambadauro
Dr. Sara Manti
Dr. Paolo Ruggeri
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Children is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • respiratory diseases
  • children
  • lung function
  • asthma
  • interstitial lung disease
  • respiratory tract infection
  • bronchopulmonary dysplasia
  • spirometry
  • DLCO
  • plethysmography

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

  • Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
  • Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
  • Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
  • External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
  • Reprint: MDPI Books provides the opportunity to republish successful Special Issues in book format, both online and in print.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (6 papers)

Download All Papers
Order results
Result details
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review

15 pages, 953 KB  
Article
Lung Ultrasound Findings in Pediatric Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Pneumonia: A Prospective Multicenter Pilot Study
by Mariantonietta Francavilla, Azzurra Orlandi, Anna Camporesi, Lucia Scarlato, Claudia Rossini, Roberto Russo, Antonello Sacco, Claudio Cafagno, Celeste Lidia Raguseo, Valentina Santoiemma, Anna Maria Musolino, Maria Chiara Supino, Anna Clemente, Luca Tagliaferri, Rosa Morello, Giandomenico Stellacci, Désirée Caselli and Danilo Buonsenso
Children 2025, 12(12), 1669; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12121669 - 8 Dec 2025
Viewed by 168
Abstract
Aims: To describe lung ultrasound (LUS) features of Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia and their distribution in pediatric age, and to correlate imaging findings with clinical and laboratory data. Methods: This is a multicenter, prospective, pilot study that involved three hospitals. In total, 35 patients [...] Read more.
Aims: To describe lung ultrasound (LUS) features of Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia and their distribution in pediatric age, and to correlate imaging findings with clinical and laboratory data. Methods: This is a multicenter, prospective, pilot study that involved three hospitals. In total, 35 patients aged 1 month to 17 years, admitted with a diagnosis of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection, were enrolled. History, clinical, microbiological, and ultrasound data were collected. The LUS examination was performed at admission, recording the following features: presence of subpleural consolidation, bronchograms, B lines, or pleural effusion, and their characteristics. The scans were performed using a standardized approach, in which a composite score was obtained by summing the scores of the different parameters. Results: Consolidations were seen in 97% of children (mostly located in basal, posterior, and lateral fields), and 65% of patients had multiple ones. Non-perilesional B lines were found in 43% of cases, principally in the posterior and basal fields. Pleural effusion was found in 37% of children. The univariate logistic regression showed a correlation between the age of the patient and large-sized consolidations. Moreover, increased lymphocyte count was associated with a lower risk of large-sized consolidations. Conclusions: LUS is a low-cost, non-invasive tool that can reveal findings suggestive of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection and help physicians better manage children with lower respiratory tract infections, supporting a more personalized diagnostic and therapeutic approach, including antibiotic selection. These preliminary findings also indicate that a larger, comparative study involving other bacterial and viral etiologic agents is warranted to confirm whether LUS patterns are pathogen-specific and whether they can predict clinical outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lung Function and Respiratory Diseases in Children and Infants)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

35 pages, 6243 KB  
Article
Diagnosis, Treatment, and Follow-Up of Tracheo/Bronchomalacia in Children: The Italian Multicenter Experience
by Angelo Florio, Michele Ghezzi, Francesca Rizzo, Paolo Del Greco, Katia Perri, Fabio Antonelli, Annalisa Gallizia, Francesco Santoro, Elena Ribera, Francesco Macchini, Michele Torre, Francesco Donati, Federica Lena, Vittorio Guerriero, Paola Borgia, Valerio Gentilino, Roberto D’Agostino, Federica Porcaro, Alessio Conte, Duino Meucci, Roberto Baggi, Michele Gaffuri, Pietro Salvati and Oliviero Saccoadd Show full author list remove Hide full author list
Children 2025, 12(11), 1511; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12111511 - 7 Nov 2025
Viewed by 728
Abstract
Background: In pediatric age, the central airways are more flexible and mobile, with tracheal and bronchial walls easily tending to collapse, allowing partial or complete occlusion of the lumen: a situation described as tracheobronchomalacia (TBM). This is a condition that causes an increase [...] Read more.
Background: In pediatric age, the central airways are more flexible and mobile, with tracheal and bronchial walls easily tending to collapse, allowing partial or complete occlusion of the lumen: a situation described as tracheobronchomalacia (TBM). This is a condition that causes an increase in intrathoracic pressure that may accentuate airway collapse, and a biphasic or barking cough appears. Objectives: Although TBM is relatively frequent in pediatric age, the diagnostic criteria and subsequent treatment do not follow well-standardized criteria and often vary from pediatric center to center. Therefore, there is a need to standardize diagnostic procedures and the resulting medical or surgical treatments. Methods: We therefore organized a day of meetings to talk about TBM, inviting all Italian pediatricians and pediatric surgeons who diagnose and treat patients with this pathology on a daily basis. Results: This work, collecting all the meeting interventions, is a compendium that deals with all aspects of TBM, emphasizing the most correct criteria to diagnose and therefore best treat each pediatric patient with this clinical condition. We give particular emphasis to the need to perform static and dynamic videobronchoscopy (S/DVBS) to verify the patency of the tracheal lumen, so as to evaluate the severity of TBM. Conclusions: this work deals with TBM in all its diagnostic and treatment aspects and can be a valid help for all pediatricians who treat these patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lung Function and Respiratory Diseases in Children and Infants)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 261 KB  
Article
Pediatric Inhaled Medication: A Cross-Sectional Analysis on Usage Trends and Parental Perceptions in Romania
by Alina Angelica Ciolpan, Mihai Craiu, Andreea Pușcașu, Mihai Alexandru Borcan and Valentina Daniela Comănici
Children 2025, 12(11), 1436; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12111436 - 23 Oct 2025
Viewed by 980
Abstract
Background: Inhaled medications are central in managing pediatric respiratory diseases, yet device complexity and nebulizer use often challenge caregivers and affect adherence. This study assessed current usage patterns and parental perceptions of inhaled therapies in Romania, aiming to identify modifiable factors for targeted [...] Read more.
Background: Inhaled medications are central in managing pediatric respiratory diseases, yet device complexity and nebulizer use often challenge caregivers and affect adherence. This study assessed current usage patterns and parental perceptions of inhaled therapies in Romania, aiming to identify modifiable factors for targeted education. Methods: A cross-sectional observational survey was distributed via SVC® (Spitalul Virtual pentru Copii—Virtual Children’s Hospital), a widely accessed social media platform for Romanian parents. Data included demographics, inhaled medication use, prescribing sources, adherence, and treatment perceptions. Results: A total of 1825 parents participated, mostly urban residents (87.6%). Chronic respiratory disease, mainly asthma, was reported in 7.3% of children. Inhaled therapy was used in 71.9% of cases, predominantly saline solutions, bronchodilators, and corticosteroids, marking a decline compared with the past decade. Nebulizers (74.1%) were the main devices used. Prescriptions were largely pediatrician-based, though self-medication occurred, particularly with saline solutions, often influenced by non-medical sources (p = 0.003). Parents of children with chronic disease were less likely to self-medicate (p = 0.042), especially with β2-agonists and corticosteroids (p < 0.001). Additionally, 31.3% reported use of complementary remedies, including homeopathy. Overall, 73.5% perceived inhaled therapy as effective, with adverse events reported by only 8.3%. Conclusions: Inhaled therapy remains prevalent in Romanian children, though self-medication and alternative treatments persist, shaped by cultural factors and limited medical education. Parents of children with chronic disease show better adherence and reliance on prescribed therapy. Enhancing parental education via accessible digital platforms may reduce inappropriate practices and improve outcomes in low-resource settings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lung Function and Respiratory Diseases in Children and Infants)

Review

Jump to: Research

17 pages, 835 KB  
Review
Managing Cough in Pediatric Neuromuscular Disorders: Lung Function and Care Strategies
by Simone Foti Randazzese, Grazia Fenu, Claudia Calogero, Enrico Lombardi and Sara Manti
Children 2025, 12(10), 1377; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12101377 - 12 Oct 2025
Viewed by 1260
Abstract
Children with neuromuscular disorders (NMDs) are at high risk for respiratory complications due to impaired cough and weakness of respiratory muscles. Effective cough is essential for airway clearance, infections’ prevention, and maintaining lung function. This narrative review explores the physiology of cough, the [...] Read more.
Children with neuromuscular disorders (NMDs) are at high risk for respiratory complications due to impaired cough and weakness of respiratory muscles. Effective cough is essential for airway clearance, infections’ prevention, and maintaining lung function. This narrative review explores the physiology of cough, the consequences of cough insufficiency, and methods for assessing respiratory function in pediatric NMDs. It discusses current care strategies including airway clearance techniques, respiratory muscle training, and preventive and supportive interventions. Emphasis is placed on multidisciplinary management and early intervention to improve outcomes and quality of life. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lung Function and Respiratory Diseases in Children and Infants)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 681 KB  
Review
Lung Function Assessment in Pediatric Asthma: Selecting the Optimal Tests for Clinical and Research Applications
by Giulia Michela Pellegrino, Alessandro Gobbi, Marco Fantini, Riccardo Pellegrino and Giuseppe Francesco Sferrazza Papa
Children 2025, 12(8), 1073; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12081073 - 15 Aug 2025
Viewed by 1176
Abstract
Recent documents from leading international pediatric respiratory societies have strongly encouraged the use of lung function tests in clinical practice and research. These tests can explore ventilatory function across its volumetric and temporal domains, providing information on the intrapulmonary location and extent of [...] Read more.
Recent documents from leading international pediatric respiratory societies have strongly encouraged the use of lung function tests in clinical practice and research. These tests can explore ventilatory function across its volumetric and temporal domains, providing information on the intrapulmonary location and extent of damage caused by respiratory diseases. The choice of which test to use in each case to investigate presenting respiratory symptoms depends on the patient’s symptoms and the diagnostic–therapeutic phase being addresse d. In the most common and representative chronic pediatric condition—bronchial asthma—lung function tests play an especially important role due to the disease’s complexity and the fluctuating nature of airway obstruction. This review aims to examine the potential of various lung function tests in asthma, helping clinicians and researchers to optimize diagnosis and follow-up with the most appropriate methodology. While spirometry and flow resistance measurements using the interrupter technique have historically been the cornerstones of diagnosis and clinical monitoring in childhood asthma, the advent of new technologies—such as multiple breath nitrogen washout (MBNW) and the forced oscillation technique (FOT)—is opening up the door to a more nuanced view of the disease. These tools allow for an evaluation of asthma as a structurally complex and topographically and temporally disorganized condition. FOT, in particular, facilitates measurement acceptability in less cooperative subjects, both in respiratory physiology labs and even at the patient’s home. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lung Function and Respiratory Diseases in Children and Infants)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 847 KB  
Review
The Impact of Physical Activity on Clinical Outcomes in Children with Cystic Fibrosis: A Narrative Review
by Chiara Rosolia Capasso, Antonio Luca Miniato, Paola Di Filippo, Armando Di Ludovico, Sabrina Di Pillo, Francesco Chiarelli, Giuseppe Francesco Sferrazza Papa and Marina Attanasi
Children 2025, 12(7), 831; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12070831 - 23 Jun 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1476
Abstract
Background: Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a chronic genetic disease marked by progressive lung function decline and increased respiratory infections. Emerging evidence supports the role of physical exercise in improving lung function, aerobic capacity, and quality of life in pediatric CF patients. Methods: We [...] Read more.
Background: Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a chronic genetic disease marked by progressive lung function decline and increased respiratory infections. Emerging evidence supports the role of physical exercise in improving lung function, aerobic capacity, and quality of life in pediatric CF patients. Methods: We reviewed randomized clinical trials and observational studies from the last ten years, sourced from PubMed and Google Scholar. Included studies involved children and adolescents (0–18 years) with CF and assessed physical exercise as a primary intervention to improve lung function, aerobic fitness, quality of life, or hospitalization rates. Results: Aerobic training, particularly when combined with strength training, improves cardiorespiratory fitness and muscle strength without compromising nutritional status. High-Intensity Interval Training and Inspiratory Muscle Training show potential but need further validation. Supervised, personalized exercise programs are key to promoting adherence and optimizing outcomes. Conclusions: Exercise-based interventions in pediatric CF should evolve toward personalized, technology-enhanced, and sustainable models. Integrating wearable devices, adapting programs to individual needs, and leveraging early parental involvement may enhance engagement and outcomes, especially in the era of CFTR modulator therapies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lung Function and Respiratory Diseases in Children and Infants)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying articles 1-6
Back to TopTop