Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
bronchiolitis
Pronunciation: brong-kee-oh-LY-tis
Inflammation of the small airways in the lungs, most commonly affecting infants and young children.
Full Definition
A viral respiratory infection that causes inflammation and swelling of the bronchioles, the smallest air passages in the lungs. Most commonly caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), it typically affects children under two years of age, with peak incidence in infants under six months. Symptoms include wheezing, difficulty breathing, coughing, and feeding difficulties. While usually self-limiting, severe cases may require hospitalization for supportive care including oxygen therapy.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from bronchitis, which affects larger airways and is more common in older children and adults.
In Context
- "The infant was admitted with acute bronchiolitis secondary to RSV infection." — Hospital admission note
- "Bronchiolitis remains the leading cause of hospitalization in infants during winter months." — Medical journal article
Also known as
viral bronchiolitis
Don't confuse with
bronchitis