What is the most common cause of bronchiectasis?
Sep 13, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
In general, common causes of bronchiectasis include infections, genetic disorders, ciliary abnormalities, foreign body aspiration, and immune deficiencies. When symptoms such as cough and sputum production—especially large amounts of purulent sputum—or blood in the sputum occur, bronchiectasis should be considered, and timely medical evaluation is recommended to avoid delayed diagnosis and treatment. Avoid emotional stress and excitement, and maintain a positive and relaxed mood.
Generally speaking, there is no standard statement regarding the most common cause of bronchiectasis. However, relatively common causes include infections, genetic disorders, ciliary abnormalities, foreign body aspiration, and immune deficiencies. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Infection
Infection is a relatively common cause of bronchiectasis. Tuberculosis, pertussis (whooping cough), and adenoviral pneumonia may be complicated by bronchiectasis. Pathogens such as Aspergillus and Mycoplasma, which can lead to chronic necrotizing bronchopneumonia, may also result in secondary bronchiectasis.
2. Genetic Disorders
The most common genetic disorder associated with bronchiectasis is cystic fibrosis. Additionally, Marfan syndrome, possibly due to weak development of connective tissue, may also lead to bronchiectasis.
3. Ciliary Abnormalities
Structural or functional abnormalities of cilia are an important cause of bronchiectasis. This condition is often accompanied by impaired ciliary function.
4. Foreign Body Aspiration
Prolonged presence of a foreign body in the airway can lead to chronic obstruction and inflammation, resulting in secondary bronchiectasis. The above are common causes of bronchiectasis.
5. Immune Deficiency
Deficiency in one or more types of immunoglobulins can lead to bronchiectasis, often accompanied by recurrent respiratory tract infections. Isolated immunoglobulin A (IgA) deficiency is not commonly associated with bronchiectasis, but when coexisting with immunoglobulin G (IgG) subclass deficiencies, it may contribute to recurrent suppurative lung infections and bronchiectasis.
When symptoms such as coughing, sputum production—especially large amounts of purulent sputum—or blood-tinged sputum occur, bronchiectasis should be considered. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and receive proper treatment to avoid disease progression. Patients with bronchiectasis should maintain a light diet, avoid spicy and irritating foods, ensure balanced nutrition, and consume plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. They should avoid emotional stress and agitation, maintain a positive mood, refrain from strenuous exercise, and instead engage appropriately in aerobic activities such as jogging or swimming to promote recovery.
