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Bronchiolitis is the most common reason for hospitalization of infants in the U.S., and the possible role for steroid treatment has been hotly debated. To assess the efficacy of dexamethasone, researchers conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in infants aged 2 to 12 months at 20 emergency departments during three respiratory virus seasons. Inclusion criteria included first episode of wheezing and an ED diagnosis of moderate-to-severe bronchiolitis (defined as a Respiratory Distress Assessment Instrument [RDAI] score ≥6).
Of 8686 infants screened, 93% were excluded because of prior wheezing (41% of excluded cases), an RDAI score <6 (25%), or other reasons. Overall, 600 infants were randomized to receive either a singl…