Pediatric Bronchiolitis

Excerpt

Pediatric bronchiolitis is a lower respiratory tract infection primarily caused by viral pathogens. This condition is among the most common illnesses in children aged 2 or younger and the leading cause of hospitalization in this age group.

Bronchiolitis is primarily a clinical diagnosis, but viral testing may be necessary in severe cases requiring hospitalization. Identifying the specific viral cause can support infection control measures and prevent nosocomial spread. While most hospitalized infants have identifiable risk factors that increase their susceptibility, otherwise healthy infants and older children can also develop severe infections that necessitate hospitalization. In severe cases, infants with significant respiratory compromise may require mechanical ventilation.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the primary cause of bronchiolitis, although nearly all respiratory viruses can cause the condition in infants and young children. RSV bronchiolitis significantly contributes to the global disease burden, with approximately 33 million cases annually, 95% of which occur in low-income countries. Recent estimates indicate that around 3.6 million infants are hospitalized for bronchiolitis each year, with up to 118,000 deaths attributed to the condition or related complications. Unfortunately, half of these deaths occur within the first 6 months of life, and 97% of all infant deaths from bronchiolitis are reported in low- and middle-income countries.