Alternative Names
Acquired bronchiectasis; Congenital bronchiectasis
Definition of Bronchiectasis
Bronchiectasis is destruction and widening of the large airways.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Bronchiectasis is often caused by recurrent inflammation or infection of the airways. It most often begins in childhood as a complication from infection or .
Symptoms
Symptoms often develop gradually, and may occur months or years after the event that causes the bronchiectasis.
Signs and tests
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.
Treatment
Treatment is aimed at controlling infections and bronchial secretions, relieving , and preventing complications.
Expectations (prognosis)
The outlook depends on the specific cause of the disease. With treatment, most people can lead normal lives without major disability.
Review
David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc., and Denis Hadjiliadis, MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA. – 9/15/2010
