Bronchiectasis

Question 1

Pathophysiology

Answer 1

Permanent and abnormal dilation to the bronchi. Occurs when there is a chronic airway infection resulting in inflammation of lungs

Question 2

Inflammation arises as…

Answer 2

combination of immune deficiency and persistent infection.

Inflammation is progressive resulting in worsening pulmonary damage

Question 3

Obstruction is caused by

Answer 3

inflammatory cells which may form lymphoid follicles

Question 4

Obstruction arises predominantly from

Answer 4

involvement of small airways

Question 5

signs and symptoms

Answer 5

Coughing up yellow or green mucus daily
Shortness of breath that gets worse during flare-ups
Fatigue, feeling run-down or tired
Fevers and/or chills
Wheezing or whistling sound while you breathe
Coughing up blood or mucus mixed with blood, a condition called hemoptysis
Chest pain from increased effort to breathe
Clubbing, or the thickening of the skin under nails

Question 6

Diagnosis

Answer 6

family history and blood tests

chest x ray and CT scan

Question 7

Auscultations

Answer 7

abnormal dilation of bronchi after obstruction and infection
inspiratory and expiratory crackles - pus in lung
crackles early in inspiration continue to mid inspiration and fade at end
crackles audible at mouth (proximal airway involvement)
Crackles are coarse

Question 8

management

Answer 8

Antibiotics
Pulmonary rehabilitation
Sputum clearance exercises
Spirometry