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Bronchitis. Light micrograph of a section through lung tissue affected by chronic bronchitis, inflammation of the bronchi (airways) in the lung. The inflammation leads to an overproduction of sputum, which is coughed up on a regular basis. Large sputum-secreting glands are seen at left. Chronic bronchitis is usually caused by prolonged tobacco smoking, although air pollution can also be a factor. Treatment is with bronchodilator drugs (which widen the airways) and the administration of pure oxygen. Antibiotics may help to prevent opportunistic lung infections. Magnification unknown. (KEYSTONE/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY/CNRI)