Outcome of status asthmaticus at a pediatric intensive care unit in Hong Kong.

SA accounts for a small proportion of PICU admissions. LOS was short and prognosis generally good. Nonadherence to prior asthma therapy was common. The most common trigger is enterovirus/rhinovirus for children with severe asthma requiring PICU admission. A trend of increase in usage of ipratropium, magnesium sulfate and NIV was observed. Primary prevention and early treatment of exacerbation are the most important step in managing children with asthma. Regular follow-up to ensure compliance together with annual vaccination could possibly avoid PICU admissions.