Bronchiectasis Flashcards
Bronchiectasis is what
describes a permanent dilatation of the airways secondary to chronic infection or inflammation
Causes of Bronchiectasis?
post-infective: tuberculosis, measles, pertussis, pneumonia
cystic fibrosis
bronchial obstruction e.g. lung cancer/foreign body
immune deficiency: selective IgA, hypogammaglobulinaemia
allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA)
ciliary dyskinetic syndromes: Kartagener’s syndrome, Young’s syndrome
yellow nail syndrome
Presentation of Bronchiectasis on CT
widespread tram-track and signet ring signs
Bronchiectasis present
persistent productive cough. Large volumes of sputum may be expectorated
dyspnoea
haemoptysis
Signs
abnormal chest auscultation
coarse crackles
wheeze
clubbing may be present
Bronchiectasis bacteria
Haemophilus influenzae (most common)
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Klebsiella spp.
Streptococcus pneumoniae
Bronchiectasis management
physical training (e.g. inspiratory muscle training) - has a good evidence base for patients with non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis
postural drainage
antibiotics for exacerbations + long-term rotating antibiotics in severe cases
bronchodilators in selected cases
immunisations
surgery in selected cases (e.g. Localised disease)
