Bronchiectasis Flashcards
what is bronchiectasis?
irreversible dilation (widening) of bronchial airways, causing a risk of infection
why does the dilation of the airways occur?
due to:
- infection
- airway obstruction
- fibrosis (thickening or scarring) of bronchial airway walls
where does localised bronchiectasis affect?
it is localised (focal) and affects a specific lobe or segment of the lung
what is the causes of localised bronchiectasis?
due to:
- tumours
- foregin bodies
- mucus plugs due to obstructed airways
where does generalised bronchiectasis affect?
usually affects both lungs, most commonly lower lobes
what is the causes of generalised bronchiectasis?
due to:
- inherited or acquired disorders that introduce infectious organisms into airways
what are the causes of bronchiectasis?
- post-infection
- inhalation injury
- airway obstructive disease
- mucociliary clearance disorders
- bronchial obstruction
- immunodeficiency
what are the different types of bronchiectasis?
- Cylindrical
- Varicose
- Cystic (saccular)
What is cylindrical bronchiectasis?
bronchi are enlarged and are cylindrical in shape
What is varicose bronchiectasis?
irregular bronchi with areas of dilation (varicosities) and constriction
What is cystic (saccular) bronchiectasis?
clusters of cysts formed from dilated bronchi. Most severe from, often found in patients with Cystic Fibrosis.
Describe the vicious cycle of bronchiectasis
- Initially, there is infection
- The infection then causes airway inflammation
- Consequences of this is impaired mucociliary clearance
- This leads to increased mucus secretion
- This then causes microbial colonisation and infection
- Finally airway obstruction and bronchial dilation occurs
what are the symptoms of bronchiectasis?
- Chronic productive cough – copious amounts of purulent, foul-smelling sputum and blood-stained mucus (haemoptysis)
- History of repeated, severe lung infections
- Dyspnoea & wheeziness
- Fatigue and poor concentration
