Bronchiectasis

Question 1

What is the defining pathological feature in bronchiectasis?

Answer 1

Irreversible, abnormal dilation of bronchi/bronchioles

Question 2

Describe the pathogenesis of bronchiectasis

Answer 2

Severe destructive inflammation of airways (due to severe or recurrent infection +/- obstruction) results in loss of surrounding elastic tissue
Muscle exceeds contraction of fibrous tissue
Clearance of organisms and fluid is impaired

Question 3

List 5 causes of bronchiectasis

Answer 3

Necrotising infections
Obstruction (+ infection)
CF
Cilia disorders
Non-infectious inflammatory conditions (e.g. CT diseases, GVHD)

Question 4

How is bronchiectasis treated?

Answer 4

Antibiotics