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Commonest cause of bronchiolitis
Paediatrics · exam-style practice question with explanation
A 4-month-old has cough, fast breathing, wheeze and fine crackles after a cold. Which organism most commonly causes this illness?
- A. Respiratory syncytial virus
- B. Streptococcus pneumoniae
- C. Haemophilus influenzae type b
- D. Mycoplasma pneumoniae
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: A. Respiratory syncytial virus
This is bronchiolitis, most often caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in infants under 1 year. Management is supportive: oxygen if saturations are low, and help with feeding and fluids. Antibiotics and bronchodilators are not routinely helpful.
Key point: Bronchiolitis: infants, RSV, supportive care.
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