Bronchiectasis

Radiological Manifestations

Bronchiectasis can be bilateral and diffuse or localized. Most common etiology for diffuse bronchiectasis in developed countries is cystic fibrosis. Immotile cilia syndome is a rare cause for diffuse bronchiectasis. Localized bronchiectasis is either due to obstruction or due to necrotizing pneumonia.

CXR
CT
  • Most common is normal CXR.
  • Peribronchial fibrosis leading to "tram lines" appearance.
  • Bronchial casts due to inspissated mucus plugs.
  • Cystic spaces due to dilated bronchioles.
  • Air fluid levels in cystic spaces.
  • Hyperinflated lungs with fibrosis.
  • Visible bronchi in outer third of lung fields
  • Dilated bronchi with thickend walls
  • Signet ring: Artery next to dilated bronchi
  • Cystic spaces
  • Tubular shadows and branching densities

 

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