[Causative role of infections with viruses or atypical pathogens in acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis less frequent than expected].

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence of viruses and atypical pathogens as causes of acute severe exacerbations of chronic bronchitis.

DESIGN

Retrospective.

SETTING

University Hospital Utrecht, the Netherlands.

METHODS

In 4 studies with 305 patients with severe type-1 exacerbations (increase of dyspnoea, of sputum volume and of sputum purulence) serological tests for viral and atypical pathogens were performed.

RESULTS

Positive serology for viral infections was seen in 18 (5.9%) patients and for the atypical pathogens in 12 (3.9%) patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Since viruses and atypical pathogens are the cause of the exacerbation in only few cases, clinical signs can be used in decision-making whether or not to prescribe antibiotics in acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis.