Potential indications for antibiotic treatment in acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis (AECB)
| Factors | Observations | [Refs.] |
| Disease severity stage III (FEV1≤35% pred) | High prevalence of positive culture for Gram-negative bacteria | 46, 47, 66, 67 |
| Comorbidity factors including the elderly, cardiac or renal disease, alcoholism, systemic corticotherapy, diabetes | Increased mortality of AECB | 10 |
| Recent previous course(s) of antibiotic and/or previous hospitalization | Increased risk of β-lactamase-producing bacteria | 46, 66 |
| Current cigarette smoking | High prevalence of Haemophilus influenzae | 34 |
FEV1: forced expiratory volume in one second