Risk Factors Influencing the Development of Acute Bronchiolitis in Infants
Abstract
Introduction: Respiratory diseases remain among the leading causes of morbidity in pediatrics, with acute bronchiolitis (AB) being one of the most common lower respiratory tract infections in infants. Worldwide, over 150 million cases of AB are registered annually, with approximately 12 million requiring hospitalization. Bronchiolitis in early childhood is associated with an increased risk of developing bronchial obstruction, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and asthma later in life. The primary etiological factor is respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), while rhinovirus, influenza, parainfluenza, adenovirus, and other viruses also contribute. Multiple predisposing factors, including hereditary, maternal, perinatal, nutritional, environmental, and social conditions, influence the onset and severity of the disease. Objective: To identify and analyze the risk factors contributing to the development and progression of acute bronchiolitis in children under one year of age. Material and Methods: The study included 73 children aged 1 month to 1 year with AB in the exacerbation phase and 20 children in remission. Clinical data, family history, maternal health, feeding practices, and environmental factors were analyzed. Diagnosis was established according to ICD-10 (J21). Results: Key risk factors identified were frequent acute respiratory infections in the family (57.3%), chronic bronchopulmonary and allergic diseases in relatives (43.7–67.8%), maternal anemia (93.2%) and infections during pregnancy (78.5%), perinatal complications, formula or mixed feeding (75.3%), and frequent antibiotic therapy. These factors contributed to increased susceptibility to AB and the development of bronchial obstruction. Conclusion: Early identification of predisposing factors is essential for effective prevention, timely diagnosis, and improved management of acute bronchiolitis in infants, reducing the risk of recurrent respiratory infections and long-term pulmonary complications.