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Clinical, pathophysiologic, and microbiologic characterization of bronchiectasis in an aging cohort
M B Nicotra1, M Rivera, A M Dale
1Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Center at Tyler 75710, USA.
Chest
|October 1, 1995
Summary
Clinicians often overlook bronchiectasis, a lung disease. This study highlights its characteristic symptoms and diagnostic findings, aiding in earlier recognition and diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Internal Medicine
- Radiology
Background:
- Bronchiectasis awareness has declined, leading to underdiagnosis.
- Existing literature often focuses on rare causes, neglecting common presentations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define the characteristic clinical, radiologic, and microbiologic features of bronchiectasis.
- To improve clinician recognition of this underdiagnosed lung condition.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of clinical, radiologic, microbiologic, and physiologic data from 123 patients with confirmed bronchiectasis.
- Diagnosis confirmed via CT scans, bronchograms, or surgical findings.
Main Results:
- The study included 123 patients (38 male, 85 female), mean age 57.2 years; 55% were lifelong non-smokers.
- Common symptoms included chronic cough with purulent sputum, hemoptysis, fever, and pleurisy. Crackles were found in 70% of patients.
- Pulmonary function tests revealed obstructive airway disease in 54% of non-smokers. Chest X-rays showed abnormalities in 91.3%.
Conclusions:
- A distinct clinical profile for bronchiectasis was identified.
- Familiarity with these findings can facilitate earlier and more accurate diagnosis of bronchiectasis.
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