The first choice for the diagnosis of bronchiectasis

Written by Zou Zhong Lan
Pulmonology
Updated on September 08, 2024
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For the diagnosis of bronchiectasis, we can rely on the symptoms of the patients such as chronic cough, coughing up large amounts of purulent sputum, repeated hemoptysis, and history of lung infections. Physical examination of the lungs may reveal fixed and persistent localized wet crackles. For auxiliary examinations, we can combine X-ray and CT scans to find imaging changes consistent with bronchiectasis and make a diagnosis. The preferred method for a definitive diagnosis of bronchiectasis is high-resolution CT, and the diagnosis can be made based on the results of a high-resolution CT scan.

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Written by Yang Feng
Pulmonology
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How is bronchiectasis cured?

Bronchiectasis is a type of chronic respiratory disease characterized primarily by recurrent coughing and sputum production. Once diagnosed with bronchiectasis, it is incurable. Prevention is crucial, and the main reason for recurrent episodes of bronchiectasis is infection. Therefore, preventing infection is paramount, including annual vaccinations against influenza and pneumonia to prevent infections. Additionally, it is important to avoid excessive fatigue and extreme emotions, as these can trigger episodes of bronchiectasis. Bronchiectasis is caused by chronic suppurative inflammation and fibrosis of the bronchi and surrounding lung tissue, leading to the destruction of the muscular and elastic tissues in the bronchial walls, resulting in deformation and permanent dilation of the bronchi.

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Written by Zou Zhong Lan
Pulmonology
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How is bronchiectasis treated?

The treatment of bronchiectasis mainly includes medical treatment and surgical treatment. Medical treatment primarily aims to control infection and promote the drainage of sputum. Antibiotics are crucial for controlling infections, initially based on empirical therapy. Adjustments can be made accordingly if results from sputum culture and drug sensitivity tests are available. Secondly, to promote sputum drainage, we can use postural drainage or mechanical vibration to expel sputum. Expectorant medications such as ambroxol and bromhexine, or nebulized inhalation therapy may also be utilized. Thirdly, bronchodilators can be used to relieve asthma symptoms and ease the patient's discomfort. If the patient has hemoptysis, hemostatic treatment should be provided. Surgical treatment is primarily considered for patients with localized bronchiectasis and when medical treatment is ineffective, in which case surgical resection may be considered.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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Bronchiectasis is what?

The basic cause of bronchiectasis is due to infection of the bronchi and lung tissue, as well as bronchial blockage. Infections can cause blockages, and blockages can also lead to infections. The two influence each other, promoting the occurrence and development of bronchiectasis. This results in damage to the bronchial walls and leads to a large amount of purulent sputum, mainly due to an increase in secretions. Additionally, chronic infection or fibrosis of the lung tissue can also lead to bronchial dilation, causing the bronchial walls to dilate and become congested.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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How to check for bronchiectasis?

How to check for bronchiectasis: generally, corresponding physical examinations and laboratory tests are used for diagnosis. Early physical examinations may not show positive signs. When the condition is severe or secondary bacterial infection occurs, fixed and persistent moist rales can be heard in the affected areas. Some patients may show signs of oxygen deficiency, such as clubbing and cyanosis. During acute infections, routine blood tests will show increased white blood cell counts and neutrophil counts. Sputum examination may reveal elastic fibers and pus cells. A chest X-ray can show thickened and disordered lung periphery, and typical lesions may appear as honeycomb-like curly shadows.

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Written by Wang Xiang Yu
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Does bronchiectasis cause fever?

Patients with bronchiectasis generally do not have a fever. However, if there is an acute exacerbation of bronchiectasis or if there is an additional infection, they might develop a fever. In cases where patients with bronchiectasis exhibit a fever, it generally indicates an infection or that their condition may be more severe compared to those without a fever. Under such circumstances, anti-infection treatment might be required. Moreover, the duration of the fever and its maximum intensity can reflect the severity of the infection to a certain extent.