Bronchiectasis: new approaches to diagnosis and management

Clin Chest Med. 2011 Sep;32(3):535-46. doi: 10.1016/j.ccm.2011.05.002.

Abstract

Non-cystic fibrosis (CF) bronchiectasis is a common, potentially serious, condition. Further investigations should be performed in an attempt to identify the underlying cause because it may lead to a change in therapy and have significant prognostic implications. MRI is being investigated as a radiation free alternative to high-resolution CT scan of the chest. Many of the treatment recommendations for non-CF bronchiectasis have not been studied in randomized controlled trials but have been extrapolated from the management recommendations for CF. Studies are beginning to inform decisions regarding the management of non-CF bronchiectasis, and an understanding of the best treatment options is beginning to emerge.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / therapeutic use
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Bronchiectasis / diagnosis*
  • Bronchiectasis / epidemiology
  • Bronchiectasis / etiology
  • Bronchiectasis / therapy*
  • Bronchodilator Agents / therapeutic use
  • Expectorants / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Macrolides / therapeutic use
  • Respiratory Therapy

Substances

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Bronchodilator Agents
  • Expectorants
  • Macrolides