differential diagnosis
Last reviewed 01/2018
This includes:
- foreign bodies within the respiratory tree
- gastro-oesophageal reflux
- whooping cough
- IgA deficiency
- cystic fibrosis
Differentials should be considered whenever there is a:
- a nocturnal cough
- no history of atopy or wheeze
- the child does not respond to treatment
Further investigation would include:
- imaging - chest X ray, barium meal
- immunological assays - immunoglobulin, including IgE, skin prick test
- haematology - full blood count
clinical clues to alternative diagnoses in wheezy children