Bronchiolitis

---

 

Aetiologic agents

• RSV

• Metapneumovirus

• Parainfluneza

• Influenza A

 

Assessment

Age of patients

Date of onset

Shortness of breath

Cough

Seasonal

 

Physical examination

 

Respiratory rate

Respiratory wheezing

Respiratory distress- flaring of ala nazi, use of accessory muscles

 

Investigation

Oximetry

 chest x-ray

 

Tests

Nasopharyngeal aspirates or swabs for IF and  virus isolation

 

Management

Mild- parents may be advised to bring their children if the symptoms gets worse

Rehydration and antipyretics

Moderate to severe- hospitalised

Respiratory isolation

Hand washing

Bronchodilators and/or steroids may be used.

For immunocompromised children Ribavirin and immunoglobulins may be used.