Bronchiolitis

Question 1

What is bronchiolitis?

Answer 1

Lower respiratory tract infection (RTI) in which the bronchioles become inflamed because of a viral infection

Question 2

What is the epidemiology of bronchiolitis?

Answer 2

Primarily affects children < 2 years

Peak incidence: 2–6 months of age

Question 3

What are the causes of bronchiolitis?

Answer 3

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)

(Less commonly) parainfluenza virus, influenza virus, adenovirus, rhinovirus, coronavirus, metapneumovirus

Question 4

What are the clinical features of bronchiolitis?

Answer 4

(Initially Upper respiratory tract symptoms) rhinorrhea, fever, and cough
(Respiratory distress) Tachypnea, prolonged expiration
Nasal flaring, intercostal retractions, Cyanosis
Lack of feeding
Respiratory wheeze + crackles

Question 5

How is bronchiolitis diagnosed?

Answer 5

Clinical diagnosis

Immunofluorescence of nasopharyngeal secretions may show RSV

Question 6

What is the treatment for bronchiolitis?

Answer 6

(Largely supportive) humidified oxygen
nasogastric feeding
suction of upper airway secretions