Bronchiectasis (BCT)
Bronchiectasis (BCT): Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Management
Bronchiectasis (BCT) is a chronic lung condition characterized by the permanent widening of parts of the airways, leading to recurrent infections and mucus buildup. Below is a detailed overview of its key aspects, supported by current evidence.
Symptoms
Symptoms of bronchiectasis include:
- Daily productive cough with yellow or green mucus.
- Shortness of breath.
- Fatigue, feeling run-down or tired.
- Fever and chills during exacerbations.
- Wheezing or a whistling sound when breathing.
- Coughing up blood (hemoptysis) in some cases.
- Chest pain and clubbing (thickening of the skin under fingernails and toenails) may occur[1][2][4].
Causes
Bronchiectasis can result from various factors:
Infections:
- Pneumonia, tuberculosis, or measles can cause airway damage.
- Cystic fibrosis: A genetic disorder leading to severe bronchiectasis in nearly all cases[2][6].
Immune System Disorders:
- Conditions like hypogammaglobulinemia impair the body’s ability to fight infections.
Idiopathic:
- In some cases, the cause remains unknown (up to 40%)[5][6].
Diagnosis
Diagnosis involves:
Symptom Evaluation:
- Persistent cough and mucus production are key indicators.
Imaging Tests:
- CT scan: Confirms airway dilation and detects complications[4][5].
- Chest X-ray: May show signs of lung damage but is less sensitive than CT[4].
- Assess respiratory capacity and function[4].
Sputum Culture:
- Identifies bacteria causing infections[4].
Treatment
Medications:
- Antibiotics: For recurrent infections[5].
- Bronchodilators: Help manage wheezing and shortness of breath[5].
Physiotherapy:
- Techniques like postural drainage aid in mucus clearance[5].
Lifestyle Changes:
- Avoid smoking and reduce exposure to pollutants[5].
Surgical Options:
- Lung transplant may be considered in severe cases[2][5].
Complications
- Respiratory failure: Reduced lung function can lead to inadequate oxygenation[2].
- Atelectasis: Collapse of lung tissue due to mucus obstruction[2].
- Cardiovascular issues: Cor pulmonale (right heart failure) can occur in advanced cases[2].
Conclusion
Bronchiectasis is a chronic condition requiring ongoing management to prevent exacerbations and complications. Early diagnosis and adherence to treatment can improve quality of life and reduce disease progression.
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References
- WebMD: Bronchiectasis
- Wikipedia: Bronchiectasis
- NHS: Bronchiectasis
- American Lung Association: Bronchiectasis
- Cleveland Clinic: Bronchiectasis
- NHS: Causes of Bronchiectasis
- Healthline: Bronchiectasis
- NHLBI: Bronchiectasis Symptoms
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