Bronchiectasis is destruction and widening of the large airways. A person may be born with it (congenital bronchiectasis) or may develop it later in life.

Bronchiectasis is often caused by recurrent inflammation or infection of the airways. It may be present at birth, but most often begins in childhood as a complication from infection or inhaling a foreign object.

Cystic fibrosis causes about 50% of all bronchiectasis in the United States today. Recurrent, severe lung infections (pneumonia, tuberculosis, fungal infections), abnormal lung defenses, and obstruction of the airway by a foreign body or tumor are some of the predisposing factors. It can also be caused by routinely breathing in food particles while eating.

Symptoms often develop gradually, and may occur months or years after the event that causes the bronchiectasis.

• Chronic cough with large amounts of foul-smelling sputum production
• Coughing up blood
• Cough worsened by lying on one side
• Shortness of breath worsened by exercise
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Clubbing of fingers may be present (abnormal amount of tissue in the fingernail beds)
• Wheezing
• Skin discoloration, bluish
• Paleness
• Breath odor

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.

Tests may include:

• Chest x-ray
• Chest CT
• Sputum culture
• CBC
• Sweat test or other cystic fibrosis testing
• Serum Immunoglobulin analysis
• Serum precipitins (testing for antibodies to the fungus aspergillus)
• PPD (purified protein derivative) skin test for prior TB infection

Treatment is aimed at controlling infections and bronchial secretions, relieving airway obstruction, and preventing complications.

Regular, daily drainage to remove bronchial secretions is a routine part of treatment. A respiratory therapist can teach postural drainage and effective coughing exercises to patients and their families.

Antibiotics, bronchodilators, and expectorants are often prescribed for infections. Childhood vaccinations and a yearly influenza vaccine help reduce the chance of some infections. Avoiding upper respiratory infections, smoking, and pollution may lessen the susceptibility to infection.

Surgical lung resection may be indicated for those who fail to respond to therapy or for massive bleeding.

With treatment, most people can lead normal lives without major disability.

• Cor pulmonale
• Recurrent pneumonia
• Coughing up blood (hemoptysis)
• Low oxygen levels (if severe)

Call your health care provider if:

• Symptoms worsen or do not improve with treatment
• There is a change in color or amount of sputum, or bloody sputum
• Chest pain or shortness of breath increases

The risk may be reduced if lung infections are promptly treated.