Psychosocial Aspects of Post-Infectious Bronchiolitis Obliterans and the Impact on Academic Survival

Post-infectious bronchiolitis obliterans (PIBO) is a chronic lung disease involving fibrosis and obstruction of the terminal bronchioles. Possible infective aetiologies are commonly adenovirus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza, and parainfluenza virus. A 25-year-old student was diagnosed with this condition in infancy and is dependent on 24-hour oxygen for the last 12 years. He was planning on pursuing a law degree in a local public institution. Due to the rarity of this chronic and debilitating illness, the physician attending his check-up must decide on the factors that could affect his academic survival or performance. However, this was overcome with careful risk-benefit considerations and support from family, peers, and physicians. This case highlights the psychosocial aspect to be considered that could impact the academic survival of such a case.