Bronchiectasis is an abnormal, permanent dilation of the bronchial tubes in the lungs. The condition can result from a number of different causes. For example, obstructions, such as those posed by foreign objects (often accidentally ingested during childhood) or tumors, can prevent the elimination of fluid emissions from the bronchi, resulting in their expansion.

Following initial dilation, the tubes continue to swell with accumulated materials even after the obstruction is removed. Bronchiectasis is also frequently associated with pneumonia, whooping cough, measles, or other infections that can inflame and weaken the walls of the bronchi. Over the course of several infections, the walls of the tubes can deteriorate to such an extent that the elastic and muscle fibers they contain are damaged to such an extent that dilation occurs. Some inherited conditions, especially cystic fibrosis, are known to be linked to bronchiectasis as well.

The primary manifestation of bronchiectasis is a chronic cough that brings up large quantities of phlegm. This phlegm often is colored yellow or green and may have a very foul odor. The excessive production of phlegm is a result of infection in the lungs, which is a habitual problem for individuals with the condition, partially due to damage to of the cilia that normally help clean out the lungs. However, other signs of infection, including fever, fatigue, and pain, are often absent from bronchiectasis patients, though in some cases their conditions can worsen and lead to pneumonia if medical treatment is not received.

Several different investigative techniques may be used by medical professionals to aid in diagnosis of bronchiectasis, including chest x-rays, CT scans, sputum culture, cystic fibrosis testing, analysis of serum immunoglobulin, and skin testing for tuberculosis. Once the condition is positively identified, then a plan of treatment may be formed. Generally this plan emphasizes the need to manage infections and phlegm production so that secretions do not block the airways and complications do not develop. Some means of keeping the condition under control include administration of expectorants, bronchodilators, and antibiotics. In the most serious cases of bronchiectasis, lung resection may be necessary if other less invasive modes of treatment prove ineffective.

Bronchiectasis at 20x Magnification - Bloody sputum associated with bronchiectasis is sometimes observed, a consequence of ruptured blood vessels located near the distended walls of the bronchi. In very rare instances, bleeding related to bronchiectasis may become a medical emergency.

Bronchiectasis at 40x Magnification - Since the symptoms of bronchiectasis can become amplified if an individual smokes or is exposed to high levels of air pollution, medical professionals generally advise patients to avoid smoking and highly polluted areas.