BRONCHITIS SCHEMATIC DIAGRAM PATHOPHYSIOLOGY Predisposing Factors: Etiologic Agent: y y Bacteria Virus Precipitating Factors: y y y y Hospitalization Unadvisable Environment

Smoking Malnutrition y y y y Elderly Immobilization Immune Deficiency Long Term Illness Smoking

Microorganism enter respiratory tract by droplet inhalation

Widespread inflammation occurs (Increased goblet cells, squamous metaplasia of columnar epithelium, acute leukotic and lymphocytic infiltration of bronchial walls)

Thin mucous lining of the bronchi can become irritated and swollen

Cells that make up this lining may leak fluids in response to the inflammation

Coughing as a reflex that works to clear secretions from the lungs

Alveolar fluid increase

Narrowing of airways

Ventilation decreases as secretion thickens Mucus within the airways produces resistance in small airways and can cause severe ventilation- perfusion imbalance

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