Bronchiolitis is most commonly caused by which virus?

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Multiple Choice

Bronchiolitis is most commonly caused by which virus?

Bronchiolitis in young children is most often caused by a viral infection of the small airways, with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) being the leading culprit. RSV accounts for the majority of bronchiolitis cases and hospitalizations in children under two years old, which is why it is the best answer. The infection targets the bronchiolar lining, causing inflammation, edema, and mucus production that plug the tiny airways. This airway obstruction leads to wheezing, tachypnea, and retractions characteristic of bronchiolitis. While other viruses like influenza A, adenovirus, or rhinovirus can cause bronchiolitis, they do so much less frequently than RSV, making RSV the most common etiologic agent.

Bronchiolitis in young children is most often caused by a viral infection of the small airways, with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) being the leading culprit. RSV accounts for the majority of bronchiolitis cases and hospitalizations in children under two years old, which is why it is the best answer. The infection targets the bronchiolar lining, causing inflammation, edema, and mucus production that plug the tiny airways. This airway obstruction leads to wheezing, tachypnea, and retractions characteristic of bronchiolitis. While other viruses like influenza A, adenovirus, or rhinovirus can cause bronchiolitis, they do so much less frequently than RSV, making RSV the most common etiologic agent.

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