Current management of bronchiolitis in infants: Evidence 2019–2025

Abstract

Introduction: Bronchiolitis is the most common lower respiratory tract infection in children younger than 24 months and an important cause of hospitalization in infants. Between 2019 and 2025, current recommendations have emphasized reducing interventions without proven clinical benefit. Objective: To summarize current evidence on the clinical management of bronchiolitis and update recommendations for clinical practice in Latin American settings. Material and Methods: Narrative review with a structured search of literature published between 2019 and 2025. A total of 25 references were included, including Cochrane systematic reviews, clinical trials, clinical guidelines, and studies on prevention and the Latin American context. Results: Current evidence supports supportive care as the cornerstone of treatment. Current guidelines do not recommend the routine use of bronchodilators, antibiotics, or systemic corticosteroids. Hypertonic saline may be considered in selected hospitalized patients. Nirsevimab and maternal RSV vaccination represent important advances in the prevention of severe disease and hospitalization. Conclusions: Current management emphasizes therapeutic selectivity and evidence-based prevention. Adherence to clinical guidelines reduces practice variability and unnecessary interventions.