Bronchiectasis.

BACKGROUND

Bronchiectasis is a common chronic lung disease that is prevalent in the Australian community and is a significant disease burden in the Australian Aboriginal community. It significantly affects quality of life and increases healthcare costs; however, it is poorly reported and documented.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this article is to provide a comprehensive summary of the important features to recognise in bronchiectasis and an updated guide to the management of bronchiectasis.

DISCUSSION: Bronchiectasis is an obstructive lung disease that is often associated with various underlying conditions that can occur as a result of infectious insult or impaired host defence. The main features of bronchiectasis are dilated airways with increased sputum production, recurrent exacerbations and impaired quality of life. Management is aimed at investigating and managing secondary causes with a focus on sputum clearance, reduction in exacerbations and improvement of quality of life.