Respiratory & Sleep Medicine\ Airway Infections Flashcards
What is bronchiolitis?
An airway disease (usually viral lower respiratory tract infection) characterized by acute inflammation, edema, and necrosis of the bronchiolar walls; hypersecretion of mucus; and bronchospasm
In what patient population is bronchiolitis most common?
Infants
What is the most common etiology of bronchiolitis? Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
Does infection with RSV confer immunity?
No. Reinfection can occur.
What is the name of the vaccine used to help prevent RSV infection (routinely given to infants with a history of chronic lung or heart disease or prematurity)?
Palivizumab
How is a diagnosis of bronchiolitis made?
- It is a clinical diagnosis.
- An upper respiratory infection developing into a lower respiratory infection
- with signs of respiratory distress including
- wheezing
- tachypnea
- increased work of breathing (nasal flaring, grunting, retractions).
What is ribavirin?
An antiviral used to treat severe bronchiolitis (or those at risk for severe disease)
What is acute bronchitis?
Transient inflammation of the bronchi (medium and large airways)
What are the causes of acute bronchitis?
- Viruses (most often)
- bacterial
- inhalation of foreign material (toxic fumes, etc)
What age group is most commonly affected by acute bronchitis?
Children less than 5 years old
What are the signs and symptoms of acute bronchitis due to infection?
- Fever
- cough and sputum production
- shortness of breath
- wheezing
- chest pain and/or
- malaise
How long does acute bronchitis usually last?
20-30 days
What is the treatment of acute bronchitis?
- Rest and plenty of fluids
- acetaminophen or other pain relievers
- cough drops
- expectorant cough medication (eg, guaifenesin)
- cough suppressants for nonproductive cough (eg, dextromethorphan)
- bronchodilators
- antibiotics (only when bacterial cause suspected or if patient has chronic lung disease)
The American Academy of Pediatrics strongly recommends that cough and cold medications not be given to children younger than what age because of life-threatening side effects?
2 years
Evidence shows that cough and cold medicines are not effective in children younger than what age?
6 years old