Cough Hypersensitivity Syndrome: Why Its Use Is Inappropriate in Children

In children and adults, chronic cough is a common symptom presenting to health professionals worldwide. It is internationally accepted that children with chronic cough should be managed with pediatric specific management guidelines. The newly proposed clinical entity of 'cough hypersensitivity syndrome' has gained significant attention in adult literature. Given the significant differences between childhood and adult chronic cough, including in respiratory physiology and anatomy, and cough sensitivity, we address the suitability of the use of cough hypersensitivity syndrome in children. We explore these differences between childhood and adult chronic cough, explain what cough hypersensitivity is and highlight why the term cough hypersensitivity syndrome should not be used in children.

Automated summary

Chronic cough is a common symptom in children and adults, and there are specific management guidelines for children. The concept of 'cough hypersensitivity syndrome', which has gained attention in adult literature, may not be applicable to children due to significant differences in respiratory physiology and anatomy. This article explores the differences between childhood and adult chronic cough, explains cough hypersensitivity, and argues against its use in children.