Bronchiectasis

Question 1

Definition of bronchiectasis

Answer 1

Permanent and abnormal enlargement of the bronchi

Question 2

Causes of bronchiectasis (5)

Answer 2

1. Cystic fibrosis
2. Asthma
3. Foreign body
4. Tumours
5. Ciliary dysfunction syndrome

Question 3

Symptoms of bronchiectasis (2)

Answer 3

1. Cough - chronic, copious purulent sputum, haemoptysis

2. Wheeze

Question 4

Signs of bronchiectasis (2)

Answer 4

1. Clubbing

2. Coarse crackles (inspiratory and expiratory)

Question 5

Gold standard investigation for bronchiectasis, and the signs that are seen (2)

Answer 5

CT

1. Tram-track pattern
2. Cignet ring (dilated bronchioles)

Question 6

Most common infective agent in bronchiectasis

Answer 6

Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CF)