Diagnosis, prevention, and management of bronchiolitis in children: review of current controversies.

Abstract

Viral bronchiolitis is a common and costly condition among young children worldwide, contributing to high medical expenditures in industrialized countries and significant mortality in low-income countries. Much research has focused on therapy for this disease entity, though the standard of care remains merely supportive. Current areas of active research include the nuances of defining bronchiolitis, a deeper exploration of causative viruses, the role and development of preventive strategies, and associated long-term outcomes. This review aims to explore relevant recent literature, and particularly to focus on active areas of uncertainty and controversy.