Acute Chest Infections (Bronchitis and Pneumonia)

Abstract

The group of conditions loosely labelled as ‘acute chest infections’ illustrates the profound gulf between the practical realities of the clinical problems and presentations facing the family physician in his work and the rather impractical non-realities of the academic scientists and specialists who classify and postulate on the conditions as seen in their own special and artificial context. The result is confusion and uncertainty. The approach in family practice must be practical and realistic and one that will help the family physician in his approach, assessment and management of these patients.