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You are here : AllRefer.com > Health > Diseases & Conditions > Bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis

Provided by A.D.A.M.

Definition

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

Symptoms & Signs

Prevention

Diagnosis & Tests

Treatment

Expectations or Prognosis

Complications

Calling Your Health Care Provider

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Alternate Names : Acquired Bronchiectasis, Congenital Bronchiectasis

Definition

Bronchiectasis is an abnormal destruction and dilation (widening) of the large airways. A person may be born with it (congenital bronchiectasis) or may acquire it later in life as a result of another disorder.

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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

Bronchiectasis is often caused by recurrent inflammation or infection of the airways. It may be present at birth, but most often begins in childhood as a complication from infection or inhaling a foreign object.

Cystic fibrosis causes about 50% of all bronchiectasis in the United States today. Recurrent, severe lung infections (pneumonia, tuberculosis, fungal infections), abnormal lung defenses, and obstruction of the airway by a foreign body or tumor are some of the predisposing factors.

Symptoms often develop gradually, and may occur months or years after the event that causes the bronchiectasis.


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Definition
Bronchiectasis Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Bronchiectasis Symptoms & Signs
Bronchiectasis Prevention
Bronchiectasis Diagnosis & Tests
Bronchiectasis Treatment
Bronchiectasis Prognosis
Bronchiectasis Complications
Calling Your Health Care Provider
Pictures & Images

Review Date : 2/6/2003
Reviewed By : David A. Kaufman, M.D., Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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