RT Book, Section A1 Schwinghammer, Terry L. A1 DiPiro, Joseph T. A1 Ellingrod, Vicki L. A1 DiPiro, Cecily V. SR Print(0) ID 1178897376 T1 Respiratory Tract Infections, Lower T2 Pharmacotherapy Handbook, 11e YR 2021 FD 2021 PB McGraw Hill PP New York, NY SN 9781260116694 LK accesspharmacy.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?aid=1178897376 RD 2024/03/28 AB Bronchitis is frequently classified as either acute or chronic. Acute bronchitis is characterized by inflammation of the epithelium of the large airways resulting from infection or exposure to irritating environmental triggers (eg, air pollution and cigarette smoke).Acute bronchitis occurs year-round, but more commonly during the winter months. Viral infections, cold, damp climates, and/or the presence of high concentrations of irritating environmental triggers such as air pollution or cigarette smoke may precipitate attacks.Respiratory viruses are the predominant infectious agents associated with acute bronchitis. The most common infecting agents include influenza A and B, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and parainfluenza virus. Bacterial pathogens are involved in a minority of cases and involve pathogens often associated with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP).Infection of the trachea and bronchi causes hyperemic and edematous mucous membranes and an increase in bronchial secretions. Destruction of respiratory epithelium can range from mild to extensive and may affect bronchial mucociliary function. In addition, the increase in desquamated epithelial cells and bronchial secretions, which can become thick and tenacious, further impairs mucociliary activity. Recurrent acute respiratory infections may be associated with increased airway hyperreactivity and possibly the pathogenesis of asthma and chronic obstructive lung disease.