|
.................................... Search the net .................................... |
Paediatric Pulmonology and Allergology
2005 April, Vol. VIII, No. 1 (2895-2906)
NEUROLOGICAL DISEASES AND THE LUNG
Anne Thomson
Department of Paediatrics of John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
One of main features of patients with neurological and various congenital and acquired neuromuscular disordes is respiratory morbidity. Increasingly paediatric pulmonologists are being involved in the care of such patients. In this article author reviewed several neurological and neuromuscular diseases and respiratory aspects of management. The objective of respiratory management is to limit respiratory complications and improve quality of life. To achieve that there are various mechanical devices (invasive and non-invasive ventilation, cough assist devices), and also therapeutical (prophylactic antibiotics, physiotherapy, immunisation) measures. Such support raises a number of ethical issues and both families and physicians will have differing views on their use. The aim is to ensure a better quality of life but not to prolong suffering of the child.