Epidemic bronchiolitis secondary to respiratory syncytial virus: Our experience and a therapeutic update
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abstract
The 16 cases of epidemic bronchiolitis secondary to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) occurring between January and May 1997 in the Pediatrics Service of a county hospital (level I) were studied retrospectively. The infants ranged in age from 15 days to 25 months. All the patients required hospitalization for periods ranging between 24 hours and 7 days. Direct immunofluorescence disclosed the presence of RSV in the nasopharyngeal secretions of all the patients. Supportive treatment with oxygen and symptomatic treatment with beta-2-adrenergic aerosoles and corticosteroids were the only therapeutic approaches. None of the patients required ribavirin administration, and the outcome was favorable in every case. A review of the therapeutic strategies discussed in the literature is also provided.