What is an expected examination finding for a 14-year-old male with bronchitis returning with cough and fever?

In a case of bronchitis, particularly in a 14-year-old male presenting with cough and fever, an expected examination finding would be right lower lobe crackles. Bronchitis is characterized by inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which can lead to the accumulation of mucus. When auscultating the lungs, crackles may be heard, especially if there is any fluid present in the alveoli or if the air is passing through mucus in the bronchi.

The presence of crackles indicates that there is some degree of abnormal fluid in the airways, which is consistent with bronchial inflammation and mucus buildup. It is important to note that while bronchitis can also cause wheezing due to airway constriction, the term "crackles" is more specific to the fluid-related sounds that can occur with bronchial inflammation or infection.

Clear lung sounds would be less expected in a case of bronchitis because the condition typically produces abnormal lung sounds due to inflammation and mucus. Wheezing, while possible, tends to be more prevalent in conditions like asthma or bronchospasm rather than isolated bronchitis in this age group. Decreased breath sounds may indicate a more serious condition such as pleural effusion or lung hyperinflation, which would not