Bronchiectasis

Question 1

Bronchiectasis

Answer 1

Abnormal, fixed (irreversible) dilatation of the bronchi. Dilatation airways accumulate purulent secretions.

Question 2

Causes

Answer 2

Repeated infections, fibrous scarring following infection, chronic bronchial obstruction, immunodeficiency, rheumatoid arthritis, 50% idiopathic.

Question 3

What happens to bronchi?

Answer 3

They become dilated, inflamed & easily collapsible.

Question 4

Symptoms

Answer 4

Persistent productive cough, intermittent haemoptysis, chest pain, recurrent LRTIs

Question 5

Signs

Answer 5

Finger clubbing, coarse inspiratory crepitations, wheeze.

Question 6

Investigations

Answer 6

CXR, HRCT, FBC, sputum culture, serum immunoglobulins

Question 7

CXR

Answer 7

Signet ring sign

Question 8

HRCT

Answer 8

Thickened, dilatated airways

Question 9

Complications

Answer 9

Pneumonia, pleural effusion, pneumothorax etc.

Question 10

Treatment: Lifestyle

Answer 10

Exercise, smoking cessation, improved nutrition, airway clearance therapy.

Question 11

Prevention

Answer 11

Vaccine

Question 12

Treatment: Antibiotics

Answer 12

According to pathogen sensitivities.