The chronic bronchitis complex in children

Chronic bronchitis is a symptom complex consisting of a chronic or recurrent 'wet' cough, increased phlegm production, and wheezing that may be associated with evidence of airways inflammation or hyperinflation on chest roentgenogram. At present, its validity as a single disease entity is in question. A more rational approach would be to view it as the clinical presentation of chronic or recurrent airway disease. One should rule out specific disease entities while assessing endogenous and exogenous factors that may be contributing to this nonspecific presentation. Such factors would include preexisting lung disease, atopy, exposure to recurrent viral infection, and pollutants such as cigarette smoke and sulfur dioxide. In doing so it is crucial to recognize the close relationship between asthma or reactive airway disease and the CB complex.