Evaluation of Patients Presenting with Chronic Cough to the Pediatric Allergy Clinic According to Age Groups

Background/Aims: Chronic cough is a prevalent issue in pediatric patients and is among the most common reasons for referral to pediatric allergists, significantly affecting quality of life and often necessitating specialized evaluation. This study aimed to analyze the clinical characteristics, etiologies, and management of chronic cough in children, providing insights into age-related prevalence. Methods: Pediatric patients presenting with chronic cough to our pediatric allergy clinic between May 1,2023 and May 31, 2024 were included in this retrospective study. Patients previously diagnosed with allergic diseases or evaluated at other clinics were excluded. Medical records were reviewed for demographics, cough characteristics, familial and environmental factors, and treatments. Results: Of the 267 patients included, 54.7% were boys, and the median age was 6.99 (interquartile range (IQR) 4.47-11.54) years. Asthma (39%), protracted bacterial bronchitis (PBB) (25.8%), and upper airway cough syndrome (UACS) (22.1%) were the most common diagnoses. PBB was more prevalent in younger patients, whereas asthma was dominant in older age groups. Regardless of the cough etiology, antibiotic use was noted in 67.8% of patients before applying to the pediatric allergy outpatient clinic. Tobacco smoke exposure was present in 40.1% of patients. Familial asthma history was significantly more common in patients with asthma (p=0.04). Conclusions: This study underscores the importance of distinguishing chronic cough etiologies in children to prevent mismanagement and overuse of antibiotics. While asthma, PBB, and UACS were among the primary causes, many other potential diagnoses also warrant consideration. Comprehensive assessments are essential for accurate diagnosis, and a multi-disciplinary approach may enhance management outcomes.