Lung Function Tests, Quality of Life and Telemedicine: Three Windows on the Multifaceted World of Asthma in Adolescents

Asthma is a heterogeneous disease usually characterized by chronic airway inflammation and recognized as the most prevalent chronic illness among children. Despite this, the knowledge as to how asthma affects adolescents is still scarce. One of the main management problems of asthmatic adolescents is the poor adherence to pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments. The assessment of respiratory function and the impact on quality of life are still two crucial challenges in the management of asthmatic adolescents. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has prompted physicians to explore complementary management strategies including telemedicine technologies. This review aims to provide an update on the contribution of respiratory functional tests, how asthma affects quality of life of adolescents and, finally, how telemedicine contributes to the management of adolescent asthmatics during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Automated summary

Asthma is a common chronic disease among children, but its impact on adolescents is still poorly understood. Poor adherence to treatments is a major management problem for asthmatic adolescents. Assessing respiratory function and understanding the impact on quality of life are key challenges in managing adolescent asthma. Telemedicine technologies have become an important tool in managing adolescent asthmatics during the COVID-19 pandemic.