[Bronchiectasis associated with human immunodeficiency virus infection]

The precise incidence of bronchiectasis (BCH) in individuals infected by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is unknown. Because such knowledge can imply different diagnostic procedures, prognosis and treatment, we report a relevant case in which clinical and radiological signs led to suspicion of BCH which was confirmed by high resolution computerized axial tomography. As life expectancy improves for HIV-infected patients, the incidence of BCH may rise. We therefore believe it is important to include BCH in the spectrum of likely pulmonary radiological signs in the HIV-infected population, though further studies must be done to assess the epidemiology, etiology, pathogenesis and prognosis of BCH.