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TAILEM BEND PHARMACY
& KAROONDA PHARMACY DEPOT
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ALTERNATIVE NAMES
acquired bronchiectasis; congenital bronchiectasis
DEFINITION
Bronchiectasis is an acquired disorder of the large bronchi (airways) which become dilated after destructive
infections of the lungs. Rarely, it may be congenital.
CAUSES, INCIDENCE, AND RISK FACTORS
Bronchiectasis is caused by recurrent inflammation or infection of the airways and primarily affects children,
although any age may be affected. It may be present at birth, but most often begins in childhood as a
complication from infection or foreign body aspiration . Cystic fibrosis, lung infections, and bronchial tumors are
some predisposing factors. Symptoms may develop gradually after an infection, and become progressively
worse. Symptoms vary widely with the individual. The incidence is 1 in 10,000 people.
SYMPTOMS
- chronic cough with sputum production, may contain pus or have a foul odor
- coughing up blood
- cough worsened by lying on one side
- shortness of breath worsened by exercise
- weight loss
- fatigue
- clubbing of fingers may be present (skin or muscle enlargement around the finger nails)
Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:
- wheezing
- skin discoloration, bluish
- paleness
- breath odor
- ankle, feet, and leg swelling
- vision abnormalities
- headache
- sensations of feeling the heart beat (palpitations) with an irregular pattern
SIGNS AND TESTS
Chest auscultation reveals crackles usually in the lower lobes of the lungs.
Tests may include:
- a chest X-ray
- a chest CT
- a sputum culture
- a CBC, may reveal anemia
This disease may also alter the results of a chest MRI.
TREATMENT
Treatment is aimed at controlling infections, secretions, airway obstruction, and complications.
Regular, daily postural drainage to remove bronchial secretions is a routine part of treatment. A respiratory
therapist can teach postural drainage and effective coughing exercises to affected people and their families. A
well balanced diet and adequate fluid intake of at least 8 glasses of fluid a day are very important for health
maintenance.
Antibiotics, bronchodilators, and expectorants are often prescribed for infections. Childhood vaccinations and
yearly influenza vaccine help reduce the prevalence of some infections. Avoidance of upper respiratory infections,
smoking, and pollution may decrease susceptibility to infection.
Surgical lung resection may be indicated for those who fail to respond to therapy or for massive bleeding.
EXPECTATIONS (PROGNOSIS)
With treatment, most people can lead normal lives without major disability.
COMPLICATIONS
Cor pulmonale
Recurrent pneumonia
CALL YOUR HEALTH PROVIDER IF
- symptoms worsen or do not improve with treatment
- there is a change in color or amount of sputum, or bloody sputum
- chest pain or shortness of breath increases