Bronchiectatic disease
Bronchiectatic disease is a chronic condition characterized by irreversible bronchial dilation, accompanied by chronic inflammation and respiratory tract infections. The disease can develop after infections such as tuberculosis or pneumonia, or it may result from congenital abnormalities of the respiratory system.
Before the advent of modern medications, bronchiectatic disease was one of the leading causes of mortality from respiratory diseases. However, thanks to medical advancements, patients with this diagnosis now have a very high chance of leading a long and full life without significant respiratory impairment.
Symptoms requiring diagnosis and treatment
- Chronic cough with excessive sputum production
- Frequent respiratory infections
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing and whistling sounds while breathing
- Hemoptysis (coughing up blood)
- Fatigue and weakness
Diagnostic and treatment methods
Diagnosis
The primary diagnostic method is computed tomography (CT scan), which provides detailed imaging of lung tissue. It allows for precise determination of the extent and localization of bronchiectasis (areas of lung dilation). Spirometry is used to assess lung function and determine the degree of airway obstruction. Bronchoscopy enables visual examination of the bronchial lining and tissue sampling for biopsy to exclude other diseases. Additionally, microbiological sputum analysis may be conducted to identify infectious agents contributing to disease flare-ups.
Treatment
The treatment of bronchiectatic disease focuses on infection control, reducing inflammation, and improving bronchial drainage. Pharmacological therapy includes: antibiotics to combat bacterial infections; bronchodilators to expand the airways and mucolytics to thin mucus and facilitate its clearance. In severe cases, where medication does not bring results, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgery aims to remove severely affected lung areas, reducing the frequency of flare-ups and improving the patient’s quality of life.
