Key SAQ bronchiectasis

Question 1

Cause of bronchiectasis

Answer 1

1. Idiopathic
2. Secondary to infection (measles, pertussis, TB).
3. Obstruction (lung cancer, foreign body).
4. Congenital : CF, kartagener’s

Question 2

Pathophysiology behind bronchiectasis

Answer 2

• Permanent dilation of the bronchi secondary to chronic infection / inflammation
• Impairs mucus clearance
• Increases susceptibility to infection

Question 3

4 features of bronchiectasis

Answer 3

1. Chronic productive cough (large volumes of sputum).
2. SOB
3. Clubbing
4. Haemoptysis

Question 4

Common cause of infection in pt with bronchiectasis

Answer 4

Haemophilus influenzae