acute bronchitis

Question 1

Definition of acute bronchitis

Answer 1

Acute bronchitis is a type of lower respiratory tract infection where there is inflammation of the large airways but not of the lung parenchyma (i.e. not a pneumonia). Cough is the predominant clinical feature, and the majority of cases are mild and self limiting.

Question 2

epidemology

Answer 2

Acute bronchitis is common, with approximately 5% of adults per year affected
Cases are higher in the autumn and winter months
Smoking is an important risk factor

Question 3

Aetiology

Answer 3

The majority of cases are viral, with common causes including:
Rhinovirus
Coronavirus
Adenovirus
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
Influenza A and B
Parainfluenza
Bacteria may be responsible in 1-10% of cases, including:
Streptococcus pneumoniae
Haemophilus influenzae
Moraxella catarrhalis
Mycoplasma pneumoniae
Bordetella pertussis