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Bronchiectasis

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Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Lungs
Lungs
Respiratory system
Respiratory system

Alternative Names    Return to top

Acquired bronchiectasis; Congenital bronchiectasis

Definition    Return to top

Bronchiectasis is destruction and widening of the large airways.

Causes    Return to top

Bronchiectasis is often caused by recurrent inflammation or infection of the airways. It most often begins in childhood as a complication from infection or inhaling a foreign object.

Cystic fibrosis causes about half of all bronchiectasis in the United States. Recurrent, severe lung infections (pneumonia, tuberculosis, fungal infections), abnormal lung defenses, and obstruction of the airway by a foreign body or tumor are some of the risk factors.

The condition can also be caused by routinely breathing in food particles while eating.

Symptoms    Return to top

Symptoms often develop gradually, and may occur months or years after the event that causes the bronchiectasis.

They may include:

Exams and Tests    Return to top

When listening to the chest with a stethoscope, the doctor may hear small clicking, bubbling, wheezing, rattling, or other sounds, usually in the lower lobes of the lungs.

Tests may include:

Treatment    Return to top

Treatment is aimed at controlling infections and bronchial secretions, relieving airway obstruction, and preventing complications.

Regular, daily drainage to remove bronchial secretions is a routine part of treatment. A respiratory therapist can show the patient coughing exercises that will help.

Antibiotics, bronchodilators, and expectorants are often prescribed for infections.

Surgery to resect the lung may be needed if medicine does not work or if the patient has massive bleeding.

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

With treatment, most people can lead normal lives without major disability.

Possible Complications    Return to top

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Call your health care provider if:

Prevention    Return to top

The risk may be reduced if lung infections are promptly treated.

Childhood vaccinations and a yearly flu vaccine help reduce the chance of some infections. Avoiding upper respiratory infections, smoking, and pollution may also reduce your risk of infection.

References    Return to top

Barker AF. Bronchiectasis, atelectasis, cysts, and localized lung disorders. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 90.

Update Date: 9/24/2008

Updated by: Benjamin Medoff, MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Pulmonary and Critical Care Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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