bronkiektasier

Bronkiektasier is a term used in some languages to refer to bronchiectasis, a chronic lung disease characterized by irreversible dilation and destruction of the bronchial walls.

Pathophysiology: Recurrent infection and inflammation lead to structural damage of airways and impaired mucociliary clearance, promoting further infection and mucus accumulation.

Causes and risk factors: Post-infectious injury, congenital conditions such as primary ciliary dyskinesia or cystic fibrosis, immune deficiencies, autoimmune diseases, chronic obstruction from tumors or foreign bodies, and exposure to certain toxins.

Clinical features: chronic productive cough with thick, often purulent sputum; wheeze or dyspnea; recurrent chest infections; fatigue; occasional hemoptysis.

Diagnosis: Chest computed tomography (CT) is the gold standard, showing dilated airways and the characteristic signet ring or tram-track appearance. Additional tests include spirometry, sputum cultures, and testing for underlying conditions (eg, CF testing, immunoglobulin levels).

Management: Primary management includes airway clearance techniques, inhaled bronchodilators, and mucolytics to improve mucus clearance. Antibiotics are used for acute exacerbations and, in some cases, long-term suppression. Vaccinations, treatment of underlying disease, and lifestyle measures are important; surgery or bronchial artery embolization may be considered for localized disease.

Prognosis and epidemiology: The course varies widely; with appropriate care, many people experience reduced exacerbations and stable lung function. Bronchiectasis is more commonly diagnosed in adults and is increasingly recognized in developed countries.