9.) Bronchiectasis

Question 1

Define

Answer 1

It is a chronic condition, characterised by permanent dilation and damage of the bronchi leading to impaired mucus clearance and recurrent lung infections

Question 2

It can be ?

Answer 2

Focal ( due to obstruction ) or difuse due to systemic or infectious processes)

Question 3

Explain how it can be infectious and non-infectious

Answer 3

Infectious we have poor mucocillary clearance which leads to infections and bronchial colonisation

Non-infectious immune mediated damage and lung fibrosis causes bronchial wall and paranchymal distortion

Question 4

Clinical symptoms

Answer 4

Thick sputum , dyspnea , chest infections hemoptysis

Question 5

Diagnosis

Answer 5

High resolution CT

Bronchial wall thickening

Tram-track” sign = parallel lines (dilated thickened bronchi)

Signet ring” sign = bronchus > artery in cross-section 1.5 times larger

Question 6

Treatment

Answer 6

Amoxicillin 500mg 3x daily plus clarithromycin for 14 days if mild

For pseudomonas consider oral ciprofloxacin 750mg twice daily for 4-6 weeks

Question 7

Complications

Answer 7

Pneumothorax, respiratory failure