Bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis is a chronic inflammatory or degenerative condition of one or more bronchi or bronchioles of the lungs marked by dilatation and loss of elasticity of the walls. This results in airflow obstruction and impaired clearance of secretions. People with bronchiectasis produce large amounts of sputum. more...

Bronchiectasis was first described by René Laënnec in 1819 and later detailed by Sir William Osler in the late 1800s.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of bronchiectasis is based on a clinical history of daily viscous sputum production and characteristic CT scan findings (such as multiple cysts near the bottom of the lung).

Treatment

Treatment of bronchiectasis is aimed at controlling infections and bronchial secretions, relieving airway obstruction, and preventing complications. This includes fighting infections with antibiotics and eliminating the fluid with postural drainage and chest physiotherapy.

Causes

It is characteristic in a number of conditions, particularly Kartagener syndrome.

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