Predicts later school-age asthma in a preschool child with recurrent wheeze.
The Asthma Predictive Index (API) is a respiratory scoring tool used in paediatric practice. Predicts later school-age asthma in a preschool child with recurrent wheeze. It scores 6 criteria and interprets the total across 2 bands, so the number always arrives with the severity it implies rather than on its own. In PediAid each criterion is shown as a labelled option with the weight it carries, so the total can be checked rather than taken on trust.
6. They are ≥3 episodes of wheezing per year during the first 3 years (required); MAJOR - parent with physician-diagnosed asthma; MAJOR - physician-diagnosed atopic dermatitis in the child; MINOR - peripheral blood eosinophilia ≥ 4 %; MINOR - wheezing apart from colds; MINOR - allergic rhinitis diagnosed in the child.
The total is interpreted as: any score - Negative: frequent-wheeze criterion plus ≥1 major OR ≥2 minor criteria are needed for a positive index; 6 criteria or more - Positive API: positive stringent API - substantially higher risk of asthma at school age (about 4-10× that of a negative index). Supports closer follow-up and a controller trial when symptoms warrant.
No. It is a structured way to record and communicate severity. A clinician concerned about a child should act on that concern regardless of the total.
Positive (stringent) API = frequent wheezing PLUS ≥1 major OR ≥2 minor criteria.
Yes. Score definitions are bundled with the PediAid app, so the score computes without a connection.