Bronchiolitis overview
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
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Overview
Bronchiolitis is swelling and mucus buildup in the smallest air passages in the lungs (bronchioles), usually due to a viral infection.
Diagnosis
Chest X Ray
Chest X-ray is sometimes useful to exclude pneumonia, but not indicated in routine cases.
Treatment
Primary Prevention
In general, prevention of bronchiolitis relies on measures to reduce the spread of the viruses that cause respiratory infections (that is, handwashing, and avoiding exposure to those symptomatic with respiratory infections).mPremature infants, and others with certain majory cardiac and respiratory disorders, can receive passive immunization with Palivizumab (a monoclonal antibody against RSV). This form of passive immunization therapy requires monthly injections every winter. Whether it could benefit infants with lung problems secondary to muscular dystrophies and other vulnerable groups is currently unknown.