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Bronchiectasis
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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- Neuropathy
- Breast Cancer
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
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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
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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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