Bronchiectasis Flashcards
What is the definition of bronchiectasis
Permanent dilatation of the bronchi and bronchioles
What are some causes of bronchiectasis
BIGA
Bronchial obstruction - Foreign body, tumour
Post-Infectious - pneumonia, TB, bronchiolitis, measles, pertussis
Genetic - CF, Kartagener’s, Primary ciliary dyskinesia
Autoimmune - RA, hypogammaglobulinaemia
- Allergic pulmonary aspergillosis
- Yellow nail syndrome
What is yellow nail syndrome
Disease characterised by yellow nails, lymphoedema, pleural effusions and bronchiectasis
What is Kartagener’s
Disease characterised by bronchiectasis, situs invertus and sinusitis
What is the gold standard examination for bronchiectasis
High resolution CT thorax - showing classical bronchial dilatation (signet ring sign) and wall thickening
What medication is used for bronchiectasis
Antibiotics
Bronchodilators
*Early intervention for exacerbations with antibiotics and steroids
What are some of the complications of bronchiectasis
Pneumonia
Pneumothorax
Massive haemoptysis
Empyema
- Brain abscess
- Amyloidosis
Does bronchiectasis cause clubbing
Yes
What would you expect to hear on auscultation in bronchiectasis
Coarse inspiratory crackles
Wheeze
What symptoms might a patient with bronchiectasis complain of
Cough with copious amounts of sputum
Haemoptysis
Breathlessness
