Evidence that certain uncomplicated upper respiratory infections (URI) induce pulmonary function abnormalities in adults prompted a study in children where such infections occur more frequently. In a longitudinal study, 55 children aged 2.5-9 years were observed for a mean duration of 2 years. Spirometry and lung volume studies were obtained routinely every 3 months, with each URI and 4 weeks post-illness providing data on 636 well and 260 illness observations. Adjusted mean values of forced vital capacity, 1 sec forced expiratory volume, peak expiratory flow rate, mid-maximal expiratory flow rate, and expiratory flow rate at 50% FVC decreased during URI. The data suggest lower respiratory tract involvement without signs or symptoms of lower airways or alveolar disease occurs with URI of varied etiology in childhood. Respiratory syncytial virus is the most common cause of severe lower respiratory illness in infants and recurrent infections occur commonly. To evaluate the immune response to primary and secondary RSV infection serial determinations of serum neutralizing antibody and circulating antigen reactive lymphocytes were performed. Although a brisk serum antibody response was seen after both infections, antigen reactive lymphocytes were only detected after the second episode.

Project Officer: Brock Ketcham. University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Frank Porter Graham Child Development Center "September 1977." "EPA-600/1-77-044." Includes bibliographical references.