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Bronchiolitis is an acute inflammatory condition affecting the small airways (bronchioles) in infants and young children, most commonly caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). It typically occurs in children under 2 years of age, with peak incidence between 3-6 months, presenting with respiratory distress, wheezing, and feeding difficulties.
Viral infection causes inflammation and swelling of the bronchiolar epithelium, leading to increased mucus production and cellular debris that obstructs the small airways. This obstruction creates a ball-valve effect, allowing air to enter during inspiration but trapping it during expiration, resulting in hyperinflation and ventilation-perfusion mismatch.
Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on age, seasonal occurrence, and characteristic symptoms of rhinorrhea progressing to cough, wheezing, and respiratory distress. Management is largely supportive with oxygen therapy, hydration, and monitoring, as bronchodilators and corticosteroids have limited proven benefit in typical cases.