Severe asthma in children

Children who remain uncontrolled despite Step 3 therapy (with good adherence and inhaler technique, and no likely alternative diagnoses) are considered to have severe asthma. These children require referral to a specialist (a paediatrician or paediatric respiratory physician) for investigation and management.

Specialist management of asthma may include the addition of tiotropium, monoclonal antibodies or allergen immunotherapy to standard therapy.

For detailed information about severe asthma in children; see the Severe Asthma Toolkit, an Australian resource for assessing and managing severe asthma.