Bronchiolitis obliterans

What causes bronchiolitis obliterans?

Bronchiolitis obliterans may result from lung injury caused by a variety of different chemicals and respiratory infections. Inhaled chemicals known to irritate the lungs and lead to the condition include chlorine; ammonia; oxides of nitrogen or sulfur dioxide; welding fumes; or food flavoring fumes (such as diacetyl). Respiratory infections caused by respiratory syncytial virus, adenovirus, or _Mycoplasma pneumonia _have been linked with the condition.

Bronchiolitis obliterans can also be associated with rheumatoid arthritis and graft-versus- host disease following a lung or hematopoietic cell transplantation.

Last updated on 05-01-20

How is bronchiolitis obliterans diagnosed?

A diagnosis of bronchiolitis obliterans is often suspected based on the presence of characteristic signs and symptoms. Additional testing can then be ordered to support and confirm the diagnosis. These tests may include:

Last updated on 05-01-20

Is bronchiolitis obliterans inherited?

Bronchiolitis obliterans is not thought to be inherited. Most cases occur sporadically in people with no family history of the condition.

Last updated on 05-01-20

How might bronchiolitis obliterans be treated?

Although there is no cure for bronchiolitis obliterans, treatment may help stabilize or slow its progression. The best treatment options and the effectiveness of the selected treatments vary based on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. Medications often prescribed to people with bronchiolitis obliterans include certain types of antibiotics (called macrolide antibiotics), corticosteroids, and immunosuppressive drugs. In severe cases, lung transplantation may be recommended. Therapies such as cough suppressors or supplemental oxygen can also be given to manage the symptoms associated with the condition.

Last updated on 05-01-20

Where To Start

Bronchiolitis obliterans - Resources

The National Jewish Health Web site provides information about bronchiolitis obliterans. Click on the link to view this information.

Last updated on 04-27-20

Name: Children's Interstitial Lung Disease Foundation 6539 Harrison Ave #1045
Cincinnati, OH, 45247, United States
Email: info@child-foundation.org Url: http://child-foundation.org/
Tomikaw SO & cols. Follow-up on pediatric patients with bronchiolitis obliterans treated with corticosteroid pulse therapy Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases. 2014; 9(128). Reference Link

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