Phenotypes of wheezing and asthma in preschool children.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the identified phenotypes of preschool wheezing.

RECENT FINDINGS: Early life wheezing patterns have been described in multiple populations, with several commonalities found between cohorts. Early life environmental exposures have been found to be differentially associated with preschool wheezing phenotypes and their future trajectories. These include allergen and microbe exposure, environmental tobacco smoke exposure, and maternal stress and depression. Elevated IgE in early life may also influence future asthma risk.

SUMMARY: Preschool wheezing phenotypes are heterogeneous and complex, with trajectories that are related to factors including environmental exposures. More research is needed to characterize these relationships, hopefully leading to targeted prevention strategies.