Impact of mood disorders in a pediatric patient with severe asthma

ABSTRACT
Asthmatic children may be more likely to develop psychiatric disorders, including depression and anxiety, that may negatively influence the management and the degree of asthma control. We describe the case of a 15-year-old girl admitted to our Pediatric Unit for post-infectious severe asthma. The first psychological evaluation showed an unsettled mood. Treatment with Long-Acting Beta2-Agonists (LABA)/Inhaled Corticosteroids (ICS) high dosage and anti-leukotriene was prescribed, and gradually suspended over three months without exacerbations. Psychological interviews were also performed.
After a three-months follow-up, psychological tests showed a serene mood and no depression or anxiety symptoms. The resolution of depressive-anxious symptoms through psychotherapy may result in clinical improvement even in the absence of therapy for asthma, suggesting that psychological evaluation is crucial to improve the control of the disease.
A close collaboration between mental health professionals and allergists could result in improved symptoms control, quality of life, overall functioning and, ultimately, decreased mortality.

IMPACT STATEMENT
A single-center experience about the role of psychotherapy and psychological tests in the management of patients with asthma.

Received: Apr 29, 2023
Accepted: June 14, 2023
Published: Sept 1, 2023