Can bronchiolitis occur in a 5-year-old child?

From the Guidelines

Bronchiolitis is unlikely to occur in 5-year-old children as it is primarily a disease of children under 2 years of age. According to the study by 1, bronchiolitis is characterized by tachypnea, wheeze, and/or crepitations/crackles in children (aged < 2 years) following an upper respiratory illness. The study highlights that bronchiolitis is one of the most common acute lower respiratory tract infections in very young children and the most common cause of hospitalization in those aged < 1 year.

When considering the diagnosis of bronchiolitis in older children, it's essential to note that the symptoms may be similar to those of viral-induced wheezing or asthma exacerbation. The study by 1 discusses the potential for chronic symptoms post-acute episode, but this is more relevant to children under 2 years of age.

Key points to consider in the management of a 5-year-old with suspected bronchiolitis-like symptoms include:

• Ensuring adequate hydration
• Nasal suctioning if needed
• Monitoring for respiratory distress
• Avoiding unnecessary use of antibiotics unless there's a bacterial co-infection
• Considering the possibility of viral-induced wheezing or asthma exacerbation instead of bronchiolitis

It's crucial for parents to seek immediate medical attention if the child shows signs of difficulty breathing, inability to drink, dehydration, or severe lethargy. However, the primary consideration should be the low likelihood of bronchiolitis in a 5-year-old child, and alternative diagnoses should be explored, as suggested by the study 1.

From the Research

Bronchiolitis in Children

• Bronchiolitis is an acute illness affecting the lower respiratory tract, typically in children under the age of two 2.
• The most common cause of bronchiolitis is the seasonal respiratory syncytial virus, with influenza and adenovirus also notable contributors 2.

Age Group Affected by Bronchiolitis

• The study primarily examines the clinical profile, risk factors, severity, and outcomes of bronchiolitis in children under two years, excluding the neonatal age group 2.
• The average age of children with bronchiolitis in the study was 10.18 months, with a standard deviation of 4.8 months 2.

Bronchiolitis in 5-Year-Olds

• There is no direct evidence in the provided study to suggest that bronchiolitis can occur in 5-year-olds, as the study focuses on children under two years of age 2.
• The study does not provide information on the occurrence of bronchiolitis in children older than two years, including 5-year-olds 2.