Bronchiectasis

Question 1

Definition

• Causative organisms
• Aetiology

Answer 1

Chronic infection of bronchi/ bronchioles leading to permanent dilation.
- Persistent cough with sputum production

Organisms

• H. influenzae
• Strep. pneumoniae
• S. aureus
• Psueudomonas

Aetiology

• Congenital: CF, primary ciliary dyskinesia
• Post-infective: measles, pneumonia, TB, HIV.
• Tumour

Question 2

Presentation

Answer 2

Persistent cough with sputum production.

Clubbing

Question 3

Investigations

Answer 3

Sputum culture

CXR

• Cystic shadows
• Thickend bronchial wall

Spirometry
- Obstructive patterns

Question 4

Management

• Initial presentation
• Acute exacerbation

Answer 4

Initial
- Exercise + good nutrition

• Airway clearance: postural drainage, 2/3 times daily.
• Bronchodilator: salbutamol

Acute exacerbation

• Add Antibiotics
• Localised disease/ severe haemoptysis= surgery