Abstract
Bronchiectasis is a heterogeneous, chronic condition with many aetiologies. It poses a significant burden on patients and healthcare practitioners and services. Clinical exacerbations often result in reduced quality of life, increased rate of lung function decline, increased hospitalisation, and mortality. Recent focus in respiratory research, guidelines, and future management options has improved this clinical field in evidence-based practice, but further work and phase III clinical trials are required. This article aims to summarise and explore advances in management strategies in recent years and highlight areas of research and future focus.
Highlights
Non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis (NCFB) is a chronic inflammatory condition resulting from repeated insult and/or obstruction to small and medium-sized bronchi, leading to fixed dilation and architectural distortion[1,2]
Bronchiectasis has diverse aetiologies, including idiopathic, post-respiratory tract infection, rare immunodeficiency disorders, genetic abnormalities, autoimmune conditions, chronic inflammation, and mechanical obstruction[2,3]. It is increasingly being recognised as part of a disease entity coinciding with and complicating other pulmonary conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Short-term therapy Antimicrobial therapy Fourteen days of antibiotic therapy is recommended for an acute exacerbation of bronchiectasis
Summary
Non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis (NCFB) is a chronic inflammatory condition resulting from repeated insult and/or obstruction to small and medium-sized bronchi, leading to fixed dilation and architectural distortion[1,2]. Bronchiectasis has diverse aetiologies, including idiopathic (up to 50% of cases), post-respiratory tract infection, rare immunodeficiency disorders, genetic abnormalities, autoimmune conditions, chronic inflammation, and mechanical obstruction[2,3]. It is increasingly being recognised as part of a disease entity coinciding with and complicating other pulmonary conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The prevalence rates in women increased from 350 to 566 per 100,000 patient years and in men increased from 301 to 485 per 100,000 patient years in the same time[4]. The study illustrated the increased mortality rates in this population group and the need for hospitalisation, further strengthening the case for the increasing impact it has on our healthcare systems[4]
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