In children, all are true except –
**Core Concept**
The question is testing knowledge about the pathophysiology and clinical presentation of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in children. RSV is a common cause of lower respiratory tract infections in infants and young children, leading to bronchiolitis and pneumonia.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
RSV infection in children is characterized by inflammation and necrosis of the bronchiolar epithelium, leading to airway obstruction and hypoxia. The clinical presentation typically includes symptoms such as cough, wheezing, and difficulty breathing, often accompanied by fever and irritability. The diagnosis is often made clinically, with laboratory confirmation using PCR or antigen detection tests.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** RSV infection is not typically associated with gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea, which is more commonly seen in viral gastroenteritis caused by rotavirus or norovirus.
**Option B:** While RSV infection can lead to hospitalization, particularly in high-risk infants, it is not typically associated with long-term sequelae like chronic lung disease or asthma.
**Option C:** RSV infection can cause severe illness in young children, particularly those with underlying health conditions like heart disease or immunodeficiency, but it is not typically associated with neurological complications like seizures or encephalitis.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
RSV infection is highly contagious and can be spread through close contact with an infected individual, often within 6 feet of the person. The virus can also spread through contaminated surfaces and objects, emphasizing the importance of proper hand hygiene and infection control measures.
**Correct Answer:** D.