Previously healthy infants may have increased risk of aspiration during respiratory syncytial viral bronchiolitis.

OBJECTIVE

Respiratory illnesses may cause feeding difficulties in infants. We studied the safety of oral feeding during respiratory syncytial viral (RSV) bronchiolitis in previously healthy infants.

METHODS

Twelve previously healthy infants (3-12 months) with RSV bronchiolitis underwent barium swallow studies during the acute phase of illness. Those with abnormal studies underwent repeat studies 2 to 4 weeks later.

RESULTS

The initial barium studies revealed aspiration in 3 infants. All repeat studies, performed 2 to 4 weeks later, were normal.

CONCLUSIONS

Even previously healthy infants may be at risk of aspiration during RSV bronchiolitis.