Phenotypes of young adults transitioning from paediatric to adult asthma services

Introduction: Transition from specialist paediatric to adult services is a crucial time & while this process is well established in other chronic conditions (e.g. Cystic Fibrosis) there is a lack of information in an asthma setting. Aims & Objectives: We were interested in the features of young adults (YAs) transitioning from paediatric to adult asthma services. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed our referrals from the paediatric sector over the last 4years. Results: All 42 referrals [40.5% female] transitioned between the ages of 16-18yrs. Almost half the males were below the 25th centile for height at the time of transition, while 50% of the females had an elevated BMI [median 25.0; IQR 8.0]. More YAs had an eosinophilic phenotype [median Eos count =0.7x10 9 /L; IQR 0.75] than severe allergic asthma [median Total IgE =829kU/L]. Overall >60% were prescribed high-dose inhaled or regular oral corticosteroids (OCS). The majority [70.6%] of YAs transitioning took ≥5medications daily, despite this only a minority had adequate asthma control [ACQ-6 Conclusion: Our data suggests that YAs transitioning to adult specialist asthma services have poor disease control despite substantial treatment burdens. While adherence to treatment may be an issue, the majority of these YAs will meet criteria for anti-IL5 therapy when available.