Bronchiectasis_flashcards
What is bronchiectasis?
Bronchiectasis is permanent dilatation of the bronchi. It may be generalised or restricted to one lobe.
What are the causes of generalised bronchiectasis?
Generalised bronchiectasis causes include cystic fibrosis (CF), primary ciliary dyskinesia, immunodeficiency, and chronic aspiration.
What are the causes of focal bronchiectasis?
Focal bronchiectasis causes include previous severe pneumonia, congenital lung abnormality, and obstruction by a foreign body.
What are the key symptoms of bronchiectasis?
Persistent wet cough, productive cough, chronic cough (>8 weeks as per BTS).
What history details are important in bronchiectasis?
Birth history, heel prick test, bowel movements, vaccinations up to date (UTD), BCG, reflux history, past medical history, atopy (e.g., asthma).
What are the differential diagnoses for bronchiectasis?
Differential diagnoses include CF, primary ciliary dyskinesia, immunodeficiency, pneumonia, and GORD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).
What are the investigations for bronchiectasis?
Investigations include physical examination (respiratory), bedside observations (Pulse, RR, O2 sats, BP), sputum culture, FBC (U&Es, WCC, blood culture), antibody deficiency tests, CXR, lung function tests (>5 years), CT scan, bronchoscopy, sweat test, tuberculin test, genetic testing.
What is the immediate management for a choking episode leading to bronchiectasis?
For a choking episode, encourage coughing and pat on the back, followed by 5 back blows and chest thrusts if necessary.
What is the procedure for removing a foreign object causing bronchiectasis?
Rigid bronchoscopy is used to remove the foreign object causing bronchiectasis.
What are the risks associated with rigid bronchoscopy?
Risks of rigid bronchoscopy include damage to the trachea, pushing the foreign body further down, and respiratory arrest.
What is the role of antibiotics in the management of bronchiectasis?
Antibiotics are used for treating infections associated with bronchiectasis.
