Spirometry and respiratory oscillometry: Feasibility and concordance in schoolchildren with asthma.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to describe the feasibility of respiratory oscillometry (RO) in schoolchildren with asthma, and the concordance of its results with those of spirometry, to determine its clinical usefulness. METHODS: RO and spirometry were performed in 154 children (6 to 14-year-old) with asthma, following strict quality criteria for the tests. Their feasibility (probability of valid test, time of execution, number of maneuvers needed to achieve a valid test, and perceived difficulty) was compared. The factors that influence feasibility were analyzed with multivariate methods. FEV1, FEV1/FVC, FVC and FEF25-75 for spirometry, and R5, AX and R5-19 for RO, were converted into z-scores and their concordance was investigated through intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and kappa indices for normal/abnormal values. RESULTS: There were no differences in the probability of obtaining a valid RO or spirometry (83.1% vs. 81.8%, p = 0.868). RO required a lower number of maneuvers [mean (SD) 4.2 (1.8) versus 6.0 (1.6), p < 0.001] and less execution time [5.1 (2.7) versus 7.6 (2.4) minutes, p < 0.001], and patients considered it less difficult. Age increased the probability of obtaining valid RO and spirometry. The concordance of results between RO and spirometry was low, and only between zFEV1 and zAX could it be considered moderate (ICC = 0.412, kappa = 0.427). CONCLUSION: RO and spirometry are feasible in children with asthma. RO has some practical advantages, but the concordance of its results with spirometry is low.

[Health-related quality of life in cases of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder with and without pharmacological treatment]. / Calidad de vida relacionada con la salud en casos de trastorno por déficit de atención con hiperactividad con/sin tratamiento farmacológico.

INTRODUCTION: The health-related quality of life (HRQoL) questionnaire is important in order to assess the effects of therapeutic intervention. The aim of this study is to analyse HRQoL, comparing cases of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) treated with methylphenidate (ADHD-T), untreated cases (ADHD-N), and controls. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study included a sample of 228 participants between 8 and 14 years old (114 controls, 57 ADHD-T, and 57 ADHD-N). Consecutive sampling was used in ADHD according to DSM-IV criteria (ADHD Rating Scales IV), and random sampling of controls matched by gender and age. The evaluation of HRQoL was made by using KIDSCREEN-52 parent version. RESULTS: The intensity of ADHD symptoms is significantly lower in ADHD-T than in ADHD-N. There is a moderate significant correlation between greater intensity of ADHD symptoms and worse HRQoL. ADHD cases have significantly worse HRQoL than controls on psychic well-being, mood, relationship with parents and friends, school environment, and social acceptance. The cases of ADHD-T have significantly better HRQoL than ADHD-N in the school dimension, but do not differ significantly in other dimensions of KIDSCREEN-52. CONCLUSIONS: It would be advisable that the treatment of ADHD integrates multi-dimensional therapeutic models that improve the basic symptoms of the disorder, as well as the HRQoL.

Prevalence of oppositional defiant disorder in Spain.

INTRODUCTION: Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) is characterized by a pattern of negative, defiant, disobedient and hostile behavior toward authority figures. ODD is one of the most frequent reasons for clinical consultation on mental health during childhood and adolescence. ODD has a high morbidity and dysfunction, and has important implications for the future if not treated early. OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of ODD in schoolchildren aged 6-16 years in Castile and Leon (Spain). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Population study with a stratified multistage sample, and a proportional cluster design. Sample analyzed: 1,049. Cases were defined according to DSM-IV criteria. RESULTS: An overall prevalence rate of 5.6% was found (95% CI: 4.2%-7%). Male gender prevalence=6.8%; female=4.3%. Prevalence in secondary education=6.2%; primary education=5.3%. No significant differences by gender, age, grade, type of school, or demographic area were found. ODD prevalence without considering functional impairment, such as is performed in some research, would increase the prevalence to 7.4%. ODD cases have significantly worse academic outcomes (overall academic performance, reading, maths and writing), and worse classroom behavior (relationship with peers, respect for rules, organizational skills, academic tasks, and disruption of the class). CONCLUSIONS: Castile and Leon has a prevalence rate of ODD slightly higher to that observed in international publications. Depending on the distribution by age, morbidity and clinical dysfunctional impact, an early diagnosis and a preventive intervention are required for health planning.