Definition Chronic bronchitis refers to the chronic nonspecific inflammation of the trachea and bronchus mucosa and their surrounding tissues . Clinically it is a chronic repeated process with cough, sputum, or accmpanied by gasp. Definition If the illness progresses slowly, it will often lead to obstructive pulmonary emphysema, or even pulmonary arterial hypertension, pulmonary heart disease . If the patient cough, sputum for over 3 months every year, and lasts for over 2 years, the diagnosis can be confirmed. Epidemiology Common in old people 1973 general survey: prevalence % 1992general survey,prevalence 3. 2% 50 above,prevalence 15% Etiology Etiology External:
pollution (Virus bacteria) factors weather Internal: 1. local defense and immune function of respiratory tract decrease (vegetative )nervous system dysfunction
4. ic factors factors and chemical agents Pathogenesis smoking infection physical and chemical agents climate allergic factors immunity↓ Airway susceptibility↑ Chronic bronchitis emphysema pulmonary heart disease
