A.3 Acute Bronchitis

Question 1

A.3 Acute Bronchitis

Answer 1

Self-limiting lower respiratory tract infection caused by inflammation.

• 5th most common diagnosis in family medicine, and most common is URTI

Question 2

A.3 Acute Bronchitis
Etiology

Answer 2

Viruses (> 90% of cases):
Influenza A and B
Parainfluenza
RSV
Rhinovirus
Coronavirus
Bacteria

Question 3

A.3 Acute Bronchitis
Clinical Manifestations:

Answer 3

Cough
Lasts over 5 days
Resolves within 2-3 weeks
Sputum production in about 50% of cases, especially as infection advances
Additional Symptoms
- Rhinorrhea and sore throat (often indicate preceding or concurrent upper respiratory infection)
- Chest pain and dyspnea
- Headache
- Malaise
- Myalgias
- Fever (uncommon; differential diagnosis: pneumonia)

Question 4

A.3 Acute Bronchitis
Diagnostics

Answer 4

Clinical Diagnosis
Auscultatory Findings
Wheezing, rhonchi, and coarse crackles

Further Evaluation
Needed if pneumonia is suspected

Question 5

A.3 Acute Bronchitis
Treatment

Answer 5

• Rest and Adequate Hydration
• NSAIDs

Typically self-limiting
Higher risk groups: elderly, immunocompromised individuals, and patients with pre-existing lung conditions