Diagnostic evaluation of bronchiectasis

Abstract

Bronchiectasis should be considered in anyone with chronic cough and sputum production. High resolution CT is the diagnostic test of choice for diagnosis of bronchiectasis, showing dilated non-tapering bronchi especially into the peripheral lung, increased ratio of the bronchial:arterial diameters, and occasionally mucous plugs within the dilated bronchi. Once a diagnosis of bronchiectasis is made, clinicians must determine whether workup for a predisposing cause is necessary and what diagnostic tests to obtain. Herein, we provide a brief synopsis of the known causes of bronchiectasis with a primary focus on the diagnostic tests that can help uncover an underlying vulnerability to bronchiectasis.