Marta Andreu, Department of Pneumology, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital. Vall d´Hebron Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
Paula Barquero, Department of Pneumology, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital. Vall d´Hebron Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
Sara Salvador, Department of Pneumology, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital. Vall d´Hebron Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
Miriam Barrecheguren, Department of Pneumology, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital. Vall d´Hebron Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
Acute bronchitis is a transient inflammation of the lower airways, most often caused by viral infections, and typically presents with a persistent cough lasting two to three weeks. This review outlines the main aspects of its etiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment, while addressing current challenges in its management. Although most cases resolve without specific therapy, antibiotics continue to be widely prescribed despite limited supporting evidence. Environmental factors, particularly air pollution, are increasingly recognized as contributing to both the onset and severity of the condition. In immunocompetent adults, diagnosis is clinical and rarely requires additional testing. Management should focus on symptom relief—especially cough—while avoiding overmedication and unnecessary interventions. The prognosis is generally favorable, though cough may persist even after other symptoms have resolved. Overprescription of antibiotics and misdiagnosis of alternative conditions remain common issues, underlining the need for better adherence to clinical guidelines and patient education. Looking ahead, research should prioritize the development of more effective symptomatic treatments, especially for prolonged cough, and further explore the role of environmental exposures in disease pathogenesis.
