skip to main content

Preschool asthma — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModerateRespiratoryPreschool asthmaRACP Paediatrics

A 3-year-old has persistent daily wheeze and cough unrelated to viral infections. There is a strong family history of asthma and eczema. The child has nocturnal cough 3 times per week. A trial of ICS results in significant improvement. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: D — Asthma

Persistent wheeze and cough with interval symptoms (nocturnal cough between viral episodes), atopic background, and response to ICS trial supports a diagnosis of asthma (multi-trigger wheeze) in a preschool child. Per RCH CPG, the response to a therapeutic trial of ICS is a key diagnostic tool at this age.

Reference: RCH Melbourne – 2023 – Preschool Asthma CPG