Volatile sulfur compounds in asthmatic children and adolescents: A cross-sectional study in breath and saliva

Background

Halitosis in children implies psychosocial repercussions. Risk factors associated with this condition are unclear, and detection methods are inaccurate.

Aim

To quantify the levels of sulfur-like compounds in children with asthma and healthy children from a novel validated assay, and to establish the risk factors related to halitosis.

Design

One hundred and twenty-eight individuals (63 healthy and 65 asthmatic) from 3 to 17 years of age were tested using a passive colorimetric sensor to measure the levels of sulfur-like compounds in breath and saliva. Information was collected on oral hygiene habits, gingival and dental health, breathing type, and dental malocclusion.

Results

The mean values of hydrogen sulfide were 4.0 ± 6.8 and 19.7 ± 12.2 ppbv (parts per billion in volume) in the control and asthmatic groups, respectively (p < .001). The presence of higher concentrations of sulfur compounds was significantly associated (p < .05) with the presence of gingival inflammation, tongue coating, dental plaque, mouth breathing, hypomineralization, age, tongue brushing, and the use of dental floss.

Conclusion

The level of sulfur in breath and saliva was significantly higher in patients with asthma. These results can serve as a precedent to raise awareness among paediatricians and parents about oral hygiene care in children and adolescents.