Mannose-binding lectin insufficiency is associated with airway Haemophilus colonization and a higher risk of post-RSV bronchiolitis recurrent wheezing.
Infants with mannose-binding lectin (MBL) insufficiency face a higher risk of recurrent wheezing after severe RSV bronchiolitis, linked to Haemophilus airway colonization and weaker immune response.
This study investigated the impact of MBL insufficiency on the airway microbiota and development of recurrent wheezing in infants hospitalized with severe RSV bronchiolitis. The researchers found that MBL insufficiency was more common in infants who later developed recurrent wheezing, and was independently associated with a higher risk. MBL-insufficient infants were more likely to be colonized with Haemophilus bacteria and had lower airway IFN-γ levels. These findings suggest that MBL plays a key role in shaping the post-RSV airway environment and susceptibility to recurrent wheezing. Limitations include the small sample size and lack of data on long-term respiratory outcomes.