[Mucoregulators in acute bronchitis syndromes: focus on use by general practitioners and data from the literature].

Antibiotics have long been used in the initial treatment of acute bronchitis (AB) and acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis (AECB). However, their lack of value in AB has been clearly demonstrated and antibiotic therapy is justified in only a few cases of AECB. In parallel, although the value of mucoregulators in these diseases is still debated, their prescription remains important in general practice.

Effects of air pollution on adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Few studies have been conducted on the effects of air pollution on patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). During a 14-mo period, 39 Parisian adults with severe COPD were monitored by their physicians. Daily levels of 4 air pollutants were provided by an urban air-quality network.

Short-term effects of low-level air pollution on respiratory health of adults suffering from moderate to severe asthma.

Only a few studies have been carried out on the health effects of air pollution on patients suffering from severe asthma. We wanted to test the sensitivity of these patients to Paris air pollution. During 13 months, 60 severe asthmatics (62- female; mean age 55 years) were monitored by their physician, who filled in a follow-up form at each consultation and reported any asthma attacks.