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Bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis is a chronic lung condition characterized by permanent and abnormal widening (dilation) of the bronchi — the large airways of the lungs. This occurs due to recurrent or chronic inflammation and infection, leading to damage to the airway walls, mucus build-up, and a vicious cycle of infection and impaired clearance.

The condition can affect one or more parts of the lungs and is often irreversible, but with proper management, symptoms can be controlled and progression slowed.

Causes

• Post-infectious (most common worldwide): Tuberculosis, Pneumonia, Whooping cough (pertussis)
• Congenital disorders: Cystic fibrosis, Primary ciliary dyskinesia (e.g., Kartagener’s syndrome)
• Immunodeficiency states: Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID), HIV/AIDS
• Obstruction: Tumors, foreign body
• Autoimmune diseases: Rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren’s syndrome
• Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA): Hypersensitivity reaction in asthmatics

Symptoms

• Chronic productive cough (large volume of sputum)
• Recurrent respiratory infections
• Foul-smelling or purulent sputum
• Hemoptysis (coughing up blood)
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Fatigue
• Clubbing of fingers (in advanced cases)