Pediatric Bronchospasm: Pathophysiology, Etiology, Evaluation, and Interprofessional Management

Bronchospasm represents a cardinal pathophysiological phenomenon in pediatric respiratory medicine, characterized by acute smooth muscle constriction of the small airways with resultant airflow limitation. The pediatric population exhibits heightened susceptibility to bronchospastic disease due to unique anatomical and physiological characteristics, including smaller airway calibers, distinct lung mechanics, and developmental differences in chest wall compliance. This comprehensive review examines the principal etiologies of pediatric bronchospasm—acute asthma exacerbation, acute viral bronchiolitis, and anaphylaxis—while also addressing foreign body aspiration and vascular ring as important diagnostic considerations. The discussion encompasses epidemiological patterns, clinical presentation, diagnostic evaluation, and evidence-based management strategies. Special emphasis is placed on the application of Poiseuille's Law to airway resistance, the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying each disease process, and the critical importance of interprofessional collaboration in optimizing patient outcomes. The review synthesizes current evidence to provide clinicians with a structured framework for recognizing, evaluating, and managing pediatric bronchospasm across the continuum of care.