Adult Patients With Bronchiectasis: A First Look at the US Bronchiectasis Research Registry

A narrative review of nontuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease: microbiology, epidemiology, diagnosis, and management challenges

INTRODUCTION

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are a diverse group of mycobacterial species that are ubiquitous in the environment. They are opportunistic pathogens that can cause a range of diseases, especially in individuals with underlying structural lung disease or compromised immune systems.

AREAS COVERED

This paper provides an in-depth analysis of NTM infections, including microbiology, environmental sources and transmission pathways, risk factors for disease, epidemiology, clinical manifestations and diagnostic approaches, guideline-based treatment recommendations, drugs under development, and management challenges.

EXPERT OPINION

Future approaches to the management of NTM pulmonary disease will require therapies that are well tolerated, can be taken for a shorter time period and perhaps less frequently, have few drug-drug interactions, and are active against the various strains of pathogens. As the numbers of infections increase, such therapies will be welcomed by clinicians and patients.

The Bronchiectasis Exacerbation Diary: a novel patient-reported outcome for non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis is a chronic, progressive lung disease believed to result from a vicious cycle of infection and inflammation, with symptoms of chronic cough with sputum production, chronic fatigue, rhinosinusitis, chest pain, breathlessness and haemoptysis. There are currently no established instruments to monitor daily symptoms and exacerbations for use in clinical trials. Following a literature review and three expert clinician interviews, we conducted concept elicitation interviews with 20 patients with bronchiectasis to understand their personal disease experience. Findings from literature and clinician feedback were used to develop a draft version of the Bronchiectasis Exacerbation Diary (BED), which was designed to monitor key symptoms on a daily basis and during exacerbations. Patients were eligible to be interviewed if they were US residents aged ≥18 years, had a computed tomography scan-confirmed diagnosis of bronchiectasis with ≥two exacerbations in the previous 2 years and had no other uncontrolled respiratory conditions. Four waves of five patient interviews each were conducted. Patients (n=20) had a mean±_SD age of 53.9±12.8 years, and most were female (85%) and white (85%). A total of 33 symptoms and 23 impacts arose from the patient concept elicitation interviews. The BED was revised and finalised based upon patient feedback. The final BED is a novel, eight-item patient-reported outcome (PRO) instrument for monitoring key exacerbation symptoms on a daily basis with content validity established through comprehensive qualitative research and direct patient insight. The BED PRO development framework will be completed following psychometric evaluations of the data from a phase 3 bronchiectasis clinical trial.

Efficacy of Omadacycline-Containing Regimen in a Mouse Model of Pulmonary Mycobacteroides abscessus Disease

Mycobacteroides abscessus is an opportunistic pathogen in people with structural lung conditions such as bronchiectasis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and cystic fibrosis. Pulmonary M. abscessus infection causes progressive symptomatic and functional decline as well as diminished lung function and is often incurable with existing antibiotics. We investigated the efficacy of a new tetracycline, omadacycline, in combination with existing antibiotics recommended to treat this indication, in a mouse model of M. abscessus lung disease. Amikacin, azithromycin, bedaquiline, biapenem, cefoxitin, clofazimine, imipenem, linezolid, and rifabutin were selected as companions to omadacycline. M. abscessus burden in the lungs of mice over a 4-week treatment duration was considered the endpoint. Omadacycline in combination with linezolid, imipenem, cefoxitin, biapenem, or rifabutin exhibited early bactericidal activity compared to any single drug. Using three M. abscessus isolates, we also determined the in vitro frequency of spontaneous resistance against omadacycline to be between 1.9 × 10-10 and 6.2 × 10-10 and the frequency of persistence against omadacycline to be between 5.3 × 10-6 and 1.3 × 10-5. Based on these findings, the combination of omadacycline and select drugs that are included in the recent treatment guidelines may exhibit improved potency to treat M. abscessus lung disease. IMPORTANCE M. abscessus disease incidence is increasing in the United States. This disease is difficult to cure with existing antibiotics. In this study, we describe the efficacy of a new tetracycline antibiotic, omadacycline, in combination with an existing antibiotic to treat this disease. A mouse model of M. abscessus lung disease was used to assess the efficacies of these experimental treatment regimens. Omadacycline in combination with select existing antibiotics exhibited bactericidal activity during the early phase of treatment.

Factors associated with acid-fast bacillus isolation in patients with noncystic fibrosis bronchiectasis: A cross-sectional study

INTRODUCTION

Acid-fast bacillus (AFB) is a major pathogen that causes noncystic fibrosis bronchiectasis requiring multidrug chemotherapy. Bronchoscopic bronchial wash is performed to determine the causative pathogens of bronchiectasis; but, predictive factors for AFB isolation have not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to determine the factors associated with AFB isolation from bronchial wash samples.

METHODS

This was a single-center, cross-sectional study. Patients undergoing bronchoscopic bronchial wash for bronchiectasis were included, whereas those who did not undergo high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT); had acute pneumonia, interstitial lung disease, and a positive polymerase chain reaction result but a negative culture result for AFB; or in whom a guide sheath was used for suspected lung cancer were excluded. Binomial logistic regression was used to analyze the factors associated with a positive culture for AFB.

RESULTS

Of the 96 included cases, AFB isolation was observed in the bronchial wash fluid of 26 patients (27%). No smoking history, a positive result for antiglycopeptidolipid (GPL)-core IgA antibody, and the presence of tree-in-bud appearance, multiple granular and nodular images on HRCT were more commonly observed in patients with AFB isolation than in those without. In the multivariate analysis, the tree-in-bud appearance (odds ratio, 4.223; 95% CI, 1.046-17.052) and anti-GPL core IgA antibody (odds ratio, 9.443; 95% CI, 2.206-40.421) were significantly associated with AFB isolation.

CONCLUSIONS

The tree-in-bud appearance on HRCT is likely to predict AFB isolation independent of anti-GPL core IgA antibody results. Bronchoscopic bronchial wash should be recommended for bronchiectasis with multiple granulomas on HRCT.

Racial and ethnic differences in patients enrolled in the national bronchiectasis and nontuberculous mycobacteria research registry

Demographic and socioeconomic factors are recognized to contribute to disparities in healthcare outcomes. Originally, bronchiectasis was described in a population of predominantly White ethnic group of patients in which racial disparity could not be identified. The U.S. Bronchiectasis Research Registry (BRR), a centralized database of adult patients with bronchiectasis and/or NTM from 18 clinical institutions across the U.S., was created to support the research of this condition. The aim of this study is to describe the racial and ethnic distribution of patients enrolled in the BRR and evaluate factors associated with healthcare disparities within manifestations of and/or the care delivered to this population. At the time of this study, 3600 patients with bronchiectasis and/or NTM were enrolled in the BRR. Of those, 3510 participants were included in these analyses. The population was predominantly non-HispanicWhite (n = 3143, 89.5%), followed by Hispanic or Latino (n = 149, 4.3%), Asian (n = 130, 3.7%) and non-Hispanic Black (n = 88, 2.5%) participants. Testing for cystic fibrosis, immunoglobulin deficiency, and mycobacteria was not different between races, but non-Hispanic Black patients were tested less frequently for alpha-1 antitrypsin (A1AT) deficiency compared to other groups (P = 0.01). The four groups did not differ in the proportion of Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Hemophilus influenzae. There was no statistically significant difference in use of high-frequency chest wall oscillation, pulmonary rehabilitation services, or suppressive macrolide treatment across the groups (P > 0.05). There is a disproportionately high percentage of non-Hispainc White patients compared to non-Hispanic Black patients and Hispanic or Latino patients in the BRR. However, we found an overall similarity of care of BRR patients, regardless of racial and ethnic group.

Bronchiectasis as co morbidity with COPD or ILD: complex interactions and severe consequences

Background

Bronchiectasis is a chronic pulmonary disease characterized by widened, malformed bronchi, with profuse expectoration and impaired quality of life. COPD and ILD are common co-morbidities with bronchiectasis.

Methods

The present study evaluated the clinical, laboratory& radiological characteristics of COPD and ILD with/without bronchiectasis. A hospital-based, retrospective study was conducted for 1 year.

Results

A total of 101 patients were analyzed, 60 patients had COPD, 34 had ILD and 7 patients had bronchiectasis without COPD or ILD. It was noticed that, out of the analyzed 60 COPD patients, 10 patients developed bronchiectasis (16.7%) versus10 patients of 34 ILD patients (29.4%). In COPD and ILD accompanied by bronchiectasis, the incidence of hemoptysis was significantly higher in comparison to those without bronchiectasis. Moreover, they showed a significant increase in partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PCO2) in comparison to those without bronchiectasis, as well as in comparison to bronchiectasis only. Sputum culture revealed that COPD with bronchiectasis were significantly associated with Staphlococcus aureus (77.8%), more than ILD with Bronchiectasis (33.3%). While S. pneumoniae were more evident in cases of ILD with bronchiectasis (22.2%). The bilateral, peripheral bronchiectasis was more common than the unilateral, central bronchiectasis among cases of COPD with bronchiectasis followed by ILD with bronchiectasis more than bronchiectasis only.

Conclusion

Patients with COPD /ILD with bronchiectasis can be associated with serious clinical manifestations as hemoptysis. Their sputum cultures detected more positive organisms than negative in comparison to cases of bronchiectasis only. Screening of COPD and ILD patients using HRCT Scanning is a recommended preventive measure for early detection of bronchiectasis.

Prevalence of pulmonary artery dilation in non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis: A CT analysis from a cohort of the US Bronchiectasis and Nontuberculous Mycobacteria Research Registry

Although pulmonary artery (PA) dilation is independently associated with significant morbidity and mortality in patients with pulmonary diseases irrespective of diagnosed pulmonary hypertension, its relationship to nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) is unknown. To determine the prevalence of PA dilation in patients with NTM-predominant non-CF bronchiectasis, we evaluated the chest computed tomography (CT) scans from 321 patient in the United States based Bronchiectasis and NTM Research Registry. The majority of our cohort had NTM infection. We measured the severity of bronchiectasis using modified Reiff criteria and measured the diameters of the PA and aorta (Ao), with PA dilation defined as a PA:Ao ratio > 0.9. Forty-two patients (13%) were found to have PA dilation. PA dilation was positively associated with the use of supplemental oxygen (p < 0.001), but there was no association between PA dilation and NTM infection.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolation is an important predictor for recurrent hemoptysis after bronchial artery embolization in patients with idiopathic bronchiectasis: a multicenter cohort study

BACKGROUND

Nearly half of bronchiectasis patients receiving bronchial artery embolization (BAE) still have recurrent hemoptysis, which may be life-threatening. Worse still, the underlying risk factors of recurrence remain unknown.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort was conducted of patients with idiopathic bronchiectasis who received BAE from 2015 to 2019 at eight centers. Patients were followed up for at least 24 months post BAE. Based on the outcomes of recurrent hemoptysis and recurrent severe hemoptysis, a Cox regression model was used to identify risk factors for recurrence.

RESULTS

A total of 588 individuals were included. The median follow-up period was 34.0 months (interquartile range: 24.3-53.3 months). The 1-month, 1-year, 2-year, and 5-year cumulative recurrent hemoptysis-free rates were 87.2%, 67.5%, 57.6%, and 49.4%, respectively. The following factors were relative to recurrent hemoptysis: 24-h sputum volume (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.99 [95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 1.25-3.15, p = 0.015]), isolation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (HR = 1.50 [95% CI: 1.13-2.00, p = 0.003]), extensive bronchiectasis (HR = 2.00 [95% CI: 1.29-3.09, p = 0.002]), and aberrant bronchial arteries (AbBAs) (HR = 1.45 [95% CI: 1.09-1.93, p = 0.014]). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the nomogram was 0.728 [95% CI: 0.688-0.769].

CONCLUSIONS

Isolation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an important independent predictor of recurrent hemoptysis. The clearance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa might effectively reduce the hemoptysis recurrence rate.

Towards development of evidence to inform recommendations for the evaluation and management of bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis (BE) is a chronic condition characterized by airway dilation as a consequence of a variety of pathogenic processes. It is often associated with persistent airway infection and an inflammatory response resulting in cough productive of purulent sputum, which has an adverse impact on quality of life. The prevalence of BE is increasing worldwide. Treatment guidelines exist for managing BE, but they are generally informed by a paucity of high-quality evidence. This review presents the findings of a scientific advisory board of experts held in the United States in November 2020. The main focus of the meeting was to identify unmet needs in BE and propose ways to identify research priorities for the management of BE, with a view to developing evidence-based treatment recommendations. Key issues identified include diagnosis, patient evaluation, promoting airway clearance and appropriate use of antimicrobials. Unmet needs include effective pharmacological agents to promote airway clearance and reduce inflammation, control of chronic infection, clinical endpoints to be used in the design of BE clinical trials, and more accurate classification of patients using phenotypes and endotypes to better guide treatment decisions and improve outcomes.

Epidemiological characteristics of nontuberculous mycobacteriosis and bronchiectasis: comparative study using national mortality statistics from 1970 to 2015 in Japan

Background

This study assessed longitudinal national data on mortality due to nontuberculous mycobacteriosis (NTMosis) and bronchiectasis and the association between the two diseases.

Methods

We analysed the national death statistics of Japan from 1970 to 2015. The International Classification of Disease (ICD) codes were used to extract the relevant data. Crude mortality, age-adjusted mortality and standardised mortality rates were calculated using vital statistics and the population in 2000. We also identified domestic publications related to NTMosis and bronchiectasis with an internet-based search system.

Results

The total number of bronchiectasis-related deaths remained at the same level, which was approximately 1000, for 45 years, although the number of deaths has consistently decreased in males but increased in females since the mid-1990s. A substantial increasing trend in females was also observed for NTMosis in the same period. The age-adjusted mortality data showed an increase in mortality in women due to NTMosis and confirmed the trend in bronchiectasis in women. The patterns in the number of domestic reports showed a recent slight increase in bronchiectasis and a marked increase in NTMosis.

Conclusions

The trends in bronchiectasis-related mortality differed by sex. The epidemiological trends in the two diseases were associated, especially in elderly females since the mid-1990s. It is suggested that pulmonary NTMosis without pre-existing bronchiectasis might be a leading cause of postinfectious bronchiectasis in Japan.

Evaluation of Mycobacterium Avium Complex Pulmonary Disease Treatment Completion and Adherence to ATS/IDSA Guidelines

BACKGROUND

Nontuberculous mycobacteria are environmental organisms that cause infections leading to chronic, debilitating pulmonary disease, among which Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) is the most common species.

METHODS

We described patterns of macrolide-based multidrug antibiotic therapies for MAC pulmonary disease (MAC-PD) in US Medicare beneficiaries with bronchiectasis between January 2006 and December 2014. MAC therapy was defined as a multidrug regimen containing a macrolide plus ≥1 other drug targeting MAC-PD (rifamycin, ethambutol, fluoroquinolone, or amikacin) prescribed concomitantly for >28 days.

RESULTS

We identified 9189 new MAC therapy users, with a mean age (standard deviation) of 74 (6 years) at the start of therapy; 75% female and 87% non-Hispanic white. A guideline-based regimen (a macrolide, ethambutol, and rifamycin, with or without amikacin) was prescribed for 51% of new MAC therapy users at treatment start, of whom 41% were continuing guideline-based therapy at 6 months, and only 18% at 12 months. Of all new MAC therapy users, by 18 months only 11% were still receiving MAC treatment, 55% had discontinued therapy, and 34% were censored owing to death or the end of the study period.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, nearly half of new MAC therapy users were prescribed a non-guideline-recommended macrolide-based therapy, including regimens commonly associated with promoting macrolide resistance. Treatment discontinuation was common, and once discontinued, only a few beneficiaries resumed therapy at a later time. Our study adds important data to the current literature on treatment patterns for MAC-PD among older US populations. Future research should examine treatment patterns using more contemporary data sources.

Do Patients with Bronchiectasis Have an Increased Risk of Developing Lung Cancer? A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Initial evidence supports the hypothesis that patients with non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis (NCFB) have a higher risk of lung cancer. We systematically reviewed the available literature to define the characteristics of lung malignancies in patients with bronchiectasis and the characteristics of patients who develop bronchiectasis-associated lung cancer.

METHOD

This study was performed based on the PRISMA guidelines. The review protocol was registered in PROSPERO.

RESULTS

The frequency rates of lung cancer in patients with NCFB ranged from 0.93% to 8.0%. The incidence rate was 3.96. Cancer more frequently occurred in the elderly and males. Three studies found an overall higher risk of developing lung cancer in the NCFB population compared to the non-bronchiectasis one, and adenocarcinoma was the most frequently reported histological type. The effect of the co-existence of NCFB and COPD was unclear.

CONCLUSIONS

NCFB is associated with a higher risk of developing lung cancer than individuals without NCFB. This risk is higher for males, the elderly, and smokers, whereas concomitant COPD's effect is unclear.

Pathophysiology of Chronic Bronchial Infection in Bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis is a complex and heterogeneous disease. Its pathophysiology is poorly understood, but chronic bronchial infection plays an important role in its natural history, and is associated with poor quality of life, more exacerbations and increased mortality. Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Haemophilus influenzae and Staphylococcus aureus are the most common bacteria related to chronic bronchial infection. Non-tuberculous mycobacteria, fungi and respiratory viruses are also present during clinical stability, and may increase the risk of acute exacerbation. Chronic inflammation is present in bronchiectasis, especially neutrophilic inflammation. However, macrophages and eosinophils also play a key role in the disease. Finally, airway epithelium has innate mechanisms such as mucociliary clearance and antibacterial molecules like mucins and antimicrobial peptides that protect the airways from pathogens. This review addresses how the persistence of microorganisms in the airways and the imbalance of the immune system contribute to the development of chronic bronchial infection in bronchiectasis.

Clinical, Radiological, and Lung Function Characteristics of Post-tuberculosis Bronchiectasis: An Experience From a Tertiary Care Center in India

Introduction Among chronic respiratory diseases, bronchiectasis is one of the important causes of mortality and morbidity in developing countries. Objective This study aimed to assess the clinical, radiological, microbiological, and pulmonary function profiles of adult patients with post-tubercular bronchiectasis. Methods We enrolled 138 patients with bronchiectasis confirmed by high-resolution CT scans from July 2017 to August 2018. Results A total of 138 patients with bronchiectasis were enrolled. The data from 132 patients were analyzed; six patients were excluded from the study. The mean age of post-TB bronchiectasis (post-tuberculosis bronchiectasis) patients was 36.08±13.08, which was lower than the non-tuberculosis bronchiectasis group. The proportion of the male population was more in the post-TB bronchiectasis group (54.55% vs. 37.88%, p=0.48). Smoking prevalence was high in post-TB bronchiectasis (27.27% vs. 12.12%, p=0.04). The predominant symptom was cough in the post-tubercular bronchiectasis group (48.5% vs. 41.7%, p=0.019). The history of the recurrent common cold was seen most frequently in non-post-tubercular bronchiectasis (40.9% vs. 12.9%, p=0.001). The most common radiological variant of bronchiectasis found in all patients was a cystic type (75%). The most common site of involvement was the left lower lobe, followed by the lingula in all patients and post-tuberculosis bronchiectasis patients. Pulmonary function on spirometry revealed obstructive, restrictive, and mixed patterns in 55%, 25%, and 15%, respectively. Patients with post-tuberculosis bronchiectasis had lower lung function post-FEV1/FVC (forced expiratory volume in one second/forced vital capacity) ratio (70.31±15.56 vs. 76.85±11.82, p=0.015). Binary multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that only recurrent cough cold was a significant independent risk factor for post-TB bronchiectasis. Conclusion Post-tuberculosis, and bronchiectasis followed by post-infectious causes, were the most common causes of bronchiectasis and poor lung function.

Rapid diagnosis of non-tuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary diseases by metagenomic next-generation sequencing in non-referral hospitals

Objectives

The incidence of non-tuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease (NTM-PD) has increased steadily globally, but the current culture-based diagnosis of NTM-PD is difficult and time-consuming, leading to a high possibility of misdiagnosis. Therefore, new methods should be introduced to improve the processes for clinical diagnosis of this disease.

Methods

Our retrospective observational study enrolled 12 NTM-PD patients who were identified by way of metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS), as well as the characteristic radiological presentation of slowly progressed, usually concomitant bronchiectasis, small cavitary opacity, and multiple nodules that respond poorly to empirical antibiotic therapy. These patients received the recommended drug regimen based on the identified non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) species. Clinical data, including symptoms, laboratory tests, dynamic computed tomography imaging, treatment, and outcome, were recorded and analyzed.

Results

The results of mNGS were all positive, with the standard specifically mapped read numbers (SDSMRN) of NTM ranging from 1 to 766; this was confirmed in six patients via quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analysis. The duration fromsample collection tomNGS results was 1-4 days. Among our 12 patients (except for one lost to follow-up) the CT imaging for 11 patients showed significant absorption of lesions.

Conclusions

Our results draw attention to NTM infection as a possible cause of community-acquired pneumonia, especially in patients with suggestive radiological presentation and poor responses to empirical antibiotic therapy. Our study also indicated that mNGS represented a potentially effective tool for the rapid identification of NTM in the respiratory sample. Improved clinician awareness combined with the utilization of mNGS could guide earlier diagnosis and targeted treatment, and finally improved the prognoses of patients with NTM-PD.

Bronchiectasis exacerbation: a narrative review of causes, risk factors, management and prevention

Background and Objective

Bronchiectasis exacerbations are significant events in the natural course of the disease and determine long-term clinical outcomes. This review aims to discuss the definition, causes, risk factors, management and prevention of bronchiectasis exacerbations.

Methods

The PubMed database was searched for relevant articles published in English between January 1990 and March 2022 using keywords "bronchiectasis" and "exacerbation".

Key Content and Findings

Causes of bronchiectasis exacerbation are multifactorial; it can be associated with bacterial and viral pathogens, host inflammatory responses, and external environmental effects. In addition, recent advances in bronchiectasis research highlight the phenotype of patients who are more prone to exacerbations, including those with chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection, worse symptoms, greater lung inflammation and comorbid airway diseases. Once bronchiectasis exacerbations occur, antibiotics are the mainstay treatment. Preventing exacerbations is of paramount importance because frequent exacerbations are linked to a detrimental disease course and higher mortality. To prevent frequent exacerbations, clinicians should attempt to understand the risk factors for exacerbation that are amenable to therapeutic intervention: so called "treatable traits". Treatments are personalised but include improving mucociliary clearance by physiotherapy and mucoactive therapy, reducing airway infection by inhaled antibiotics, and inflammation by long-term macrolide or in specific subpopulations, inhaled corticosteroids (ICS). Novel approaches to prevent exacerbations including direct anti-inflammatory therapies are in development for bronchiectasis.

Conclusions

Future research is needed to better manage and prevent exacerbations in patients with bronchiectasis, although recent studies have characterised frequent exacerbator phenotype and enhanced our understanding of various aspects of exacerbations.

Treatment of Nontuberculous Mycobacterial (NTM) Pulmonary Infection in the US Bronchiectasis and NTM Registry: Treatment Patterns, Adverse Events, and Adherence to American Thoracic Society/Infectious Disease Society of America Treatment Guidelines

Among 1038 participants with pulmonary Mycobacterium avium complex and 120 with Mycobacterium abscessus enrolled in the US Bronchiectasis and NTM Research Registry, less than half received antibiotic therapy in the 24 months before registry enrollment, of which less than half were guideline based. Adverse effects occurred in 21% of therapy recipients, of whom 33% discontinued therapy.

Insights into Personalised Medicine in Bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis is a heterogenous disease with multiple aetiologies resulting in inflammation and dilatation of the airways with associated mucus production and chronic respiratory infection. The condition is being recognised ever more frequently as the availability of computed tomography increases. It is associated with significant morbidity and healthcare-related costs. With new understanding of the disease process, varying endotypes, identification of underlying causes and treatable traits, the management of bronchiectasis can be increasingly personalised.

Clinical outcomes of bronchiectasis in India: data from the EMBARC/Respiratory Research Network of India registry

BACKGROUND

Identifying risk factors for poor outcomes can help with risk stratification and targeting of treatment. Risk factors for mortality and exacerbations have been identified in bronchiectasis but have been almost exclusively studied in European and North American populations. This study investigated the risk factors for poor outcome in a large population of bronchiectasis patients enrolled in India.

METHODS

The European Multicentre Bronchiectasis Audit and Research Collaboration (EMBARC) and Respiratory Research Network of India (EMBARC-India) registry is a prospective observational study of adults with computed tomography-confirmed bronchiectasis enrolled at 31 sites across India. Baseline characteristics of patients were used to investigate associations with key clinical outcomes: mortality, severe exacerbations requiring hospital admission, overall exacerbation frequency and decline in forced expiratory volume in 1 s.

RESULTS

1018 patients with at least 12-month follow-up data were enrolled in the follow-up study. Frequent exacerbations (≥3 per year) at baseline were associated with an increased risk of mortality (hazard ratio (HR) 3.23, 95% CI 1.39-7.50), severe exacerbations (HR 2.71, 95% CI 1.92-3.83), future exacerbations (incidence rate ratio (IRR) 3.08, 95% CI 2.36-4.01) and lung function decline. Coexisting COPD, dyspnoea and current cigarette smoking were similarly associated with a worse outcome across all end-points studied. Additional predictors of mortality and severe exacerbations were increasing age and cardiovascular comorbidity. Infection with Gram-negative pathogens (predominantly Klebsiella pneumoniae) was independently associated with increased mortality (HR 3.13, 95% CI 1.62-6.06), while Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection was associated with severe exacerbations (HR 1.41, 95% CI 1.01-1.97) and overall exacerbation rate (IRR 1.47, 95% CI 1.13-1.91).

CONCLUSIONS

This study identifies risk factors for morbidity and mortality among bronchiectasis patients in India. Identification of these risk factors may support treatment approaches optimised to an Asian setting.

Clinical features and pathogen distributions of microbiological-based protracted bacterial bronchitis in children of different ages in Northeast China

Background

Protracted bacterial bronchitis (PBB) is often diagnosed clinically according to chronic wet cough, which can be resolved by appropriate antibiotics. Though rarely performed in PBB diagnosis, bacterial cultures by sputum or bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid can provide etiological features, which may be different in western countries and different areas of China. This study aimed to investigate the clinical and etiological features and outcomes in children of different ages with PBB in northeast China.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed children diagnosed with PBB by positive BAL fluid or sputum bacterial cultures between 2017 and 2021. Children were divided into three age groups: <1 year (infants), 1-5 years (younger children), and ≥6 years (older children). Clinical characteristics, chest radiographic findings, bronchoscopy findings, microbiological findings, treatment strategies, and outcomes were reviewed and compared among the age groups. Factors associated with remission during follow-up were examined using logistic regression.

Results

A total of 45 children with PBB were included, consisting of 24 (53.3%) infants. The infants were often boys and had a shorter cough duration, a lower proportion of expectoration, a greater proportion of wheezing, and less bronchial wall thickening on high-resolution computed tomography compared to older children (P < 0.05). No significant differences were found among the age groups regarding macroscopic findings, except for a higher proportion of tracheobronchial malacia in infants than in older children (P = 0.013). The most commonly cultured bacteria were Haemophilus influenzae (42.2%), followed by Streptococcus pneumoniae (22.2%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (20.0%). Compared to older children, infants had a higher remission (P = 0.009) and relatively lower relapse rates (P = 0.059). Short duration of cough (OR = 0.58, 95% CI: 0.34-0.99, P = 0.046) and absence of recurrent cephalosporins before diagnosis (OR = 0.05, 95% CI: 0.00-0.73, P = 0.028) were associated with remission.

Conclusions

Infants are more prone to PBB, with increased wheezing. Gram-negative bacilli infections are common in infants in northeast China. Older children with PBB should be carefully assessed, treated and followed up, particularly those with long duration of cough and poor response to antibiotic treatments.

Human airway and lung microbiome at the crossroad of health and disease (Review)

The evolving field of the microbiome and microbiota has become a popular research topic. The human microbiome is defined as a new organ and is considered a living community of commensal, symbiotic and pathogenic microorganisms within a certain body space. The term 'microbiome' is used to define the entire genome of the microbiota. Bacteria, archaea, fungi, algae and small protists are all members of the microbiota, followed by phages, viruses, plasmids and mobile genetic elements. The composition, heterogeneity and dynamics of microbiomes in time and space, their stability and resistance, essential characteristics and key participants, as well as interactions within the microbiome and with the host, are crucial lines of investigation for the development of successful future diagnostics and therapies. Standardization of microbiome studies and harmonized comparable methodologies are required for the transfer of knowledge from fundamental science into the clinic. Human health is dependent on microbiomes and achieved by nurturing beneficial resident microorganisms and their interplay with the host. The present study reviewed scientific knowledge on the major components of the human respiratory microbiome, i.e. bacteria, viruses and fungi, their symbiotic and parasitic roles, and, also, major diseases of the human respiratory tract and their microbial etiology. Bidirectional relationships regulate microbial ecosystems and host susceptibility. Moreover, environmental insults render host tissues and microbiota disease-prone. The human respiratory microbiome reflects the ambient air microbiome. By understanding the human respiratory microbiome, potential therapeutic strategies may be proposed.

How and when to manage respiratory infections out of hospital

Lower respiratory infections include acute bronchitis, influenza, community-acquired pneumonia, acute exacerbation of COPD and acute exacerbation of bronchiectasis. They are a major cause of death worldwide and often affect the most vulnerable: children, elderly and the impoverished. In this paper, we review the clinical presentation, diagnosis, severity assessment and treatment of adult outpatients with lower respiratory infections. The paper is divided into sections on specific lower respiratory infections, but we also dedicate a section to COVID-19 given the importance of the ongoing pandemic. Lower respiratory infections are heterogeneous entities, carry different risks for adverse events, and require different management strategies. For instance, while patients with acute bronchitis are rarely admitted to hospital and generally do not require antimicrobials, approximately 40% of patients seen for community-acquired pneumonia require admission. Clinicians caring for patients with lower respiratory infections face several challenges, including an increasing population of patients with immunosuppression, potential need for diagnostic tests that may not be readily available, antibiotic resistance and social aspects that place these patients at higher risk. Management principles for patients with lower respiratory infections include knowledge of local surveillance data, strategic use of diagnostic tests according to surveillance data, and judicious use of antimicrobials.

Bronchial artery embolization for the management of frequent hemoptysis caused by bronchiectasis

Background

To retrospectively evaluate the effectiveness of bronchial artery embolization (BAE) compared with conservative therapy for the treatment of frequent hemoptysis caused by bronchiectasis.

Methods

From January 2015 to December 2019, consecutive patients who were admitted due to frequent (more than three times per year) bronchiectasis-related hemoptysis were retrospectively reviewed. Those who were treated with either BAE (n = 69) or conservative therapy (n = 47) were enrolled for analysis. The technical success, clinical success, and complications of the BAE procedure were evaluated. Long-term hemoptysis-free survival rates and clinical success were compared between patients in the BAE group and patients in the conservative group. A Cox proportional hazard regression model was used to identify the predictors of recurrent hemoptysis.

Results

The technical success rate was 100% for the BAE procedure, and clinical success was achieved in 92.8% (64 of 69) of cases. No major procedure-related complications occurred, and minor complications were observed in 16 cases (23.2%). The 1-, 2-, and 3-year hemoptysis-free survival rates were 88.3, 71.3, and 66.2%, respectively, for the BAE group and 31.9, 17.6, and 2.5%, respectively, for the conservative treatment group (P <  0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that BAE was a protective factor against recurrent hemoptysis in treated patients. In addition, the presence of cystic bronchiectasis was the only independent risk factor for rebleeding in the whole population and in the BAE group.

Conclusions

BAE may provide an effective option for patients with frequent bronchiectasis-related hemoptysis, especially for those without cystic bronchiectasis.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12890-022-02198-2.

Impacts of Asthma in Patients With Bronchiectasis: Findings From the KMBARC Registry

PURPOSE

Although the coexistence of asthma and bronchiectasis is common, the impacts of asthma on bronchiectastic patients (BE) have not been well evaluated because this issue using bronchiectasis cohorts has been investigated in only a few studies.

METHODS

In the present study, 598 patients who were prospectively enrolled in the Korean bronchiectasis registry were evaluated. The clinical characteristics between BE with asthma and those without asthma were compared.

RESULTS

Asthma was found in 22.4% of BE. BE with asthma had a higher body mass index (BMI) (P = 0.020), more dyspnea (P < 0.001), larger sputum volume (P = 0.015), and lower forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) (P < 0.001) than those without asthma. BE with asthma had a higher rate of previous pneumonia (P = 0.017) or measles (P = 0.037) than those without asthma. Regarding treatment, BE with asthma used inhaled corticosteroids, long-acting muscarinic antagonists, and leukotriene receptor antagonists more frequently than those without asthma. Although intergroup differences were not observed in disease severity of bronchiectasis (P = 0.230 for Bronchiectasis Severity Index and P = 0.089 for FACED), the Bronchiectasis Health Questionnaire (BHQ) scores indicating the quality of life, were significantly lower in BE with asthma than in those without asthma (61.6 vs. 64.8, P < 0.001). In a multivariable model adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, forced expiratory volume in 1 second %predicted, sputum volume, modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scale ≥ 2, and the number of involved lobes, asthma was associated with lower BHQ scores (β-coefficient = -2.579, P = 0.014).

CONCLUSIONS

BE with asthma have more respiratory symptoms, worse lung function, and poorer quality of life than those without asthma. A better understanding of the impacts of asthma in BE will guide appropriate management in this population.

Bronchiectasis in Adults: Aetiology and New Therapies

Bronchiectasis is emerging as a global health issue, and this is reflected by a series of registries that were established worldwide [...].

Physiology and pathophysiology of human airway mucus

The mucus clearance system is the dominant mechanical host defense system of the human lung. Mucus is cleared from the lung by cilia and airflow, including both two-phase gas-liquid pumping and cough-dependent mechanisms, and mucus transport rates are heavily dependent on mucus concentration. Importantly, mucus transport rates are accurately predicted by the gel-on-brush model of the mucociliary apparatus from the relative osmotic moduli of the mucus and periciliary-glycocalyceal (PCL-G) layers. The fluid available to hydrate mucus is generated by transepithelial fluid transport. Feedback interactions between mucus concentrations and cilia beating, via purinergic signaling, coordinate Na+ absorptive vs Cl- secretory rates to maintain mucus hydration in health. In disease, mucus becomes hyperconcentrated (dehydrated). Multiple mechanisms derange the ion transport pathways that normally hydrate mucus in muco-obstructive lung diseases, e.g., cystic fibrosis (CF), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), non-CF bronchiectasis (NCFB), and primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD). A key step in muco-obstructive disease pathogenesis is the osmotic compression of the mucus layer onto the airway surface with the formation of adherent mucus plaques and plugs, particularly in distal airways. Mucus plaques create locally hypoxic conditions and produce airflow obstruction, inflammation, infection, and, ultimately, airway wall damage. Therapies to clear adherent mucus with hydrating and mucolytic agents are rational, and strategies to develop these agents are reviewed.

Epidemiology of Lower Respiratory Tract Infections and Community-Acquired Respiratory Viruses in Patients with Bronchiolitis Obliterans Syndrome after Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation: A Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS)-chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) affecting the lungs-is an uncommon complication of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT). The epidemiology and complications of lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) and community-acquired respiratory viruses (CARVs) in these patients are poorly understood.

OBJECTIVES

We aim to characterize the epidemiology of LRTIs in patients with BOS complicating HCT. We also aim to explore the association of LRTIs and CARV detection on lung function in BOS patients.

STUDY DESIGN

Adult patients with BOS at Stanford Health Care between January 2010 and December 2019 were included in this retrospective cohort study. LRTI diagnosis was based on combined clinical, microbiologic, and radiographic criteria, using consensus criteria where available.

RESULTS

Fifty-five patients with BOS were included. BOS was diagnosed at a median of 19.2 (IQR 12.5-24.7) months after HCT, and patients were followed for a median of 29.3 (IQR 9.9-53.2) months from BOS diagnosis. Twenty-two (40%) patients died after BOS diagnosis; 17 patients died from complications of cGVHD (including respiratory failure and infection) and 5 died from relapsed disease. Thirty-four (61.8%) patients developed at least one LRTI. Viral LRTIs were most common, occurring in 29 (52.7%) patients, primarily due to rhinovirus. Bacterial LRTIs-excluding Nocardia and non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM)-were the second most common, occurring in 21 (38.2%) patients, mostly due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Fungal LRTIs, NTM, and nocardiosis occurred in 14 (25.5%), 10 (18.2%), and 4 (7.3%) patients, respectively. Median time to development of the first LRTI after BOS diagnosis was 15.3 (4.7-44.7) months. Twenty-six (76.5%) of the 34 patients who developed LRTIs had infections due to more than one type of organism-fungi, viruses, Nocardia, NTM, and other bacteria-over the observation period. Patients with at least one LRTI had significantly lower forced expiratory volume in one second percent predicted (FEV1%) (37% vs. 53%, p = 0.0096) and diffusing capacity of carbon monoxide (DLCO) (45.5% predicted vs. 69% predicted, p = 0.0001). Patients with at least one LRTI trended toward lower overall survival (OS) (p = 0.0899) and higher non-relapse mortality (NRM) (p = 0.2707). Patients with a CARV detected or LRTI diagnosed after BOS-compared to those without any CARV detected or LRTI diagnosed-were more likely to have a sustained drop in FEV1% from baseline of at least 10% (21 [61.8%] versus 7 [33.3%]) and a sustained drop in FEV1% of at least 30% (12 [36.4%] versus 2 [9.5%]).

CONCLUSIONS

LRTIs are common in BOS and associated with lower FEV1%, lower DLCO, and a trend toward decreased OS and higher NRM. Patients with LRTIs or CARVs (even absent lower respiratory tract involvement) were more likely to have substantial declines in FEV1% over time than those without. The array of organisms-including P. aeruginosa, mold, Nocardia, NTM, and CARVs-seen in BOS reflects the unique pathophysiology of this form of cGVHD, involving both systemic immunodeficiency and structural lung disease. These patterns of LRTIs and their outcomes can be used to guide clinical decisions and inform future research.

A cross-sectional study on clinical, demographic, microbiological, and radiological profile of bronchiectasis patients attending a tertiary care teaching center

BACKGROUND

Bronchiectasis is a chronic pulmonary disease characterized by progressive and irreversible bronchial dilatation. The present study aimed to assess the clinical, demographic, microbiological, and radiological features of patients with bronchiectasis.

METHODS

The study population included 60 subjects with bronchiectasis diagnosed by HRCT, who attended the Department of Respiratory Medicine a tertiary care teaching center. A single examiner examined all the 60 participants. Pulmonary function assessment was done on all the subjects on a spirometer, and early-morning sputum samples were taken for culture and sensitivity. Descriptive analysis was carried out by mean and standard deviation for quantitative variables, frequency, and proportion for categorical variables. Categorical outcomes were compared between study groups using the chi-square test. P value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Co-Guide was used for statistical analysis.

RESULT

The majority of the participants were males (62%). The most common sign observed was crepitations (75%). Pseudomonas aeruginosa (36%) was the primary pathogen isolated from sputum, followed by Klebsiella pneumonia (20%). Drug resistance was highest for ampicillin (56%), and imipenem (100%) was the most sensitive drug.

CONCLUSION

Bronchiectasis is a heterogeneous entity with varied etiologies and multifarious clinic-radiological patterns. The information on etiology and the causative microorganism and antibiotic sensitivity and resistance aids in providing early treatment and thereby improving the lung function of affected individuals.

Strong and consistent associations of precedent chronic rhinosinusitis with risk of non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis

BACKGROUND

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and bronchiectasis commonly co-occur, but most prior studies were not designed to evaluate temporality and causality.

OBJECTIVES

In a sample representing the general population in 37 counties in Pennsylvania, and thus the full spectrum of sinonasal and relevant lung diseases, we aimed to evaluate the temporality and strength of associations of CRS with non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis.

METHODS

We completed case-control analyses for each of 3 primary bronchiectasis case finding methods. We used electronic health records to identify CRS and bronchiectasis with diagnoses, procedure orders, and/or specific text in sinus or chest computerized tomography scan radiology reports. The controls never had any indication of bronchiectasis and were frequency-matched to the 3 bronchiectasis groups on the basis of age, sex, and encounter year. There were 5,329 unique persons with bronchiectasis and 33,363 without bronchiectasis in the 3 analyses. Important co-occurring conditions were identified with diagnoses, medication orders, and encounter types. Logistic regression was used to evaluate associations (odds ratios [ORs] and 95% CIs) of CRS with bronchiectasis while adjusting for confounding variables.

RESULTS

In adjusted analyses, CRS was consistently and strongly associated with all 3 bronchiectasis definitions. The strongest associations for CRS (ORs and 95% CIs) were those that were based on the text of sinus computerized tomography scan reports; the associations were generally stronger for CRS without nasal polyps (eg, OR = 4.46 [95% CI = 2.09-9.51] for diagnosis-based bronchiectasis). On average, CRS was identified more than 6 years before bronchiectasis.

CONCLUSION

Precedent CRS was strongly and consistently associated with increased risk of bronchiectasis.

[Clinical Characteristics of Nontuberculous Mycobacterium Infection Cases in Sichuan, China in 2016-2021: A Retrospective Study]

Objective

To study the distribution of nontuberculous mycobacterium (NTM) strains, clinical characteristics and drug sensitivity data of NTM infections so as to provide support for the prevention and treatment of diseases caused by NTM infection in Sichuan.

Methods

The clinical data of NTM infection cases treated at the Public Health Clinical Center of Chengdu between July 2016 and July 2021 were collected and the characteristics of the infections were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

There were differences in sex, age and underlying diseases among the NTM infection cases in Sichuan. Specifically, young and middle-aged men aged between 20 and 40 were susceptible to AIDS, older men aged over 60 were susceptible to lung diseases, and middle-aged and older women over 40 were susceptible to bronchiectasis. Respiratory tract was the main route of NTM infection. The dominant strain in Sichuan was M. chelonae/ abscessus. The drug resistance rate of M. avium and M. chelonae/ abscessus were relatively higher.

Conclusion

For NTM infection patients with different demographic characteristics and underlying diseases, the NTM infection sites, strains, and drug resistance are also different. Definite etiological diagnosis is essential to the treatment of NTM infection. We should highlight the importance of adopting individualized treatment for different NTM infections.

Endotyping Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Bronchiectasis, and the "Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-Bronchiectasis Association"

Rationale: Bronchiectasis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are two disease entities with overlapped clinical features, and codiagnosis frequently occurs (termed the "COPD-bronchiectasis association"). Objectives: To investigate the sputum microbiome and proteome in patients with bronchiectasis, COPD, and the COPD-bronchiectasis association with the aim of identifying endotypes that may inform treatment. Methods: Sputum microbiome and protein profiling were carried out using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing and a label-free proteomics workflow, respectively, in a cohort comprising patients with COPD (n = 43), bronchiectasis (n = 30), and the COPD-bronchiectasis association (n = 48). Results were validated in an independent cohort of 91 patients (n = 28-31 each group) using targeted measurements of inflammatory markers, mucins, and bacterial culture. Measurements and Main Results: Principal component analysis of sputum microbiome and protein profiles showed a partial separation between the COPD and the "COPD-bronchiectasis association" group. Further analyses revealed that patients with the "COPD-bronchiectasis association" had a higher abundance of proteobacteria, higher expression of mucin-5AC and proteins from the "neutrophil degranulation" pathway compared to those with COPD. In contrast, patients with COPD had an elevated expression of mucin-5B and several peptidase inhibitors, higher abundance of common commensal taxa, and a greater microbiome diversity. The profiles of "COPD-bronchiectasis association" and bronchiectasis groups were largely overlapping. Five endotypes were proposed with differential inflammatory, mucin, and microbiological features. The key features related to the "COPD-bronchiectasis association" were validated in an independent cohort. Conclusions: Neutrophilic inflammation, differential mucin expression, and Gram-negative infection are dominant traits in patients with the "COPD-bronchiectasis association."

Global prevalence of non-tuberculous mycobacteria in adults with non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis 2006-2021: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To accurately estimate the global prevalence of non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) in adults with non-cystic fibrosis (non-CF) bronchiectasis and to determine the proportion of NTM species and subspecies in clinical patients from 2006 to 2021.

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines.

DATA SOURCES

Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library and Web of Science were searched for articles published between 2006 and 2021.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR SELECTING STUDIES

We included all the prospective or retrospective studies without language restrictions and all patients were adults (≥18 years of age) with non-CF bronchiectasis. The studies estimated the effect size of the prevalence of NTM with a sample size ≥40, and patients were registered in and after 2006.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

Two reviewers screened the titles, abstracts and full texts independently. Relevant information was extracted and curated into tables. Risk of bias was evaluated following the Cochrane Collaboration's tool. Meta-analysis was performed with software R Statistics V.3.6.3 using random effect model with 95% CI. I² index and Q statistics were calculated to assess the heterogeneity, and mixed-effects meta-regression analyses were performed to identify the sources of heterogeneity. The proportions of NTM subspecies were examined using Shapiro-Wilk normality test in R.

RESULTS

Of all the 2014 studies yielded, 24 met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 14 were identified to be randomised controlled studies and included for an accurate estimation. The global prevalence of NTM in adults with non-CF bronchiectasis from 2006 to 2021 was estimated to be approximately 10%, with great variations primarily due to geographical location. Mycobacterium avium complex was the most common subspecies, followed by Mycobacterium simiae and Mycobacterium gordonae.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of NTM in adults with non-CF bronchiectasis has been on the rise and the most common subspecies changed greatly in recent years. More cohort studies should be done in many countries and regions for future estimates.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42020168473.

Risk Factors of Incident Lung Cancer in Patients with Non-Cystic Fibrosis Bronchiectasis: A Korean Population-Based Study

BACKGROUND

Patients with non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis have an increased risk of lung cancer, followed by higher mortality in this population. Because the risk factors of lung cancer have not been well identified, this study aimed to investigate the risk factors of lung cancer in individuals with newly diagnosed bronchiectasis.

METHODS

This cohort study using the Korean National Health Insurance Service database identified 7425 individuals with incident bronchiectasis among those who participated in the health screening exam in 2009. The cohort was followed from baseline to the date of incident: lung cancer, death, or until the end of the study period. We investigated the risk factors of lung cancer in participants with bronchiectasis using the Cox-proportional hazard models.

RESULTS

During median 8.3 years of follow-up duration, 1.9% (138/7425) developed lung cancer. In multivariable analyses, significant factors associated with increased risk of incident lung cancer included: males (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] = 3.54, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.17-5.79) than females, the overweight (adjusted HR = 1.55, 95% CI = 1.03-2.35) than the normal weight, current smokers (adjusted HR = 3.10, 95% CI = 2.00-4.79) than never smokers, participants living in the rural area (adjusted HR = 2.54, 95% CI = 1.68-3.85) than those living in the metropolitan area. Among comorbidities, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was associated with an increased risk of lung cancer (adjusted HR = 1.46, 95% CI = 1.01-2.13) in participants with bronchiectasis. In contrast, mild alcohol consumption was associated with reduced risk of lung cancer (adjusted HR = 0.47, 95% CI = 0.29-0.74) in those with bronchiectasis.

CONCLUSION

This Korean population-based study showed that males, current smoking, overweight, living in rural areas, and comorbid chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are associated with increased risk of lung cancer in individuals with bronchiectasis.

Osteoporosis in nontuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease: a cross-sectional study

Background

Since nontuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease (NTM-PD) is common in middle-aged/elderly slender women at risk of osteoporosis, we hypothesized that NTM-PD could be associated with osteoporosis. The study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of osteoporosis in patients with NTM-PD compared with that in the general population and determine the factors associated with osteoporosis in the subjects, including the serum estradiol (E₂) and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) levels.

Methods

We have recruited 228 consecutive adult patients with NTM-PD from a prospective cohort study at the Keio University Hospital, who had no history of osteoporosis or osteoporosis-associated bone fracture but underwent dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry-based bone mineral density (BMD) evaluation from August 2017–September 2019. The E₂ and 25OHD levels were measured in 165 patients with available stored serum samples. We performed multivariable logistic regression analyses for osteopenia and osteoporosis.

Results

Osteoporosis (T-score ≤  − 2.5) and osteopenia (T-score − 1 to − 2.5) were diagnosed in 35.1% and 36.8% of patients with NTM-PD, respectively. Compared with the general population, the proportion of osteoporosis was significantly higher in 50–59-, 60–69-, and 70–79-year-old women with NTM-PD. Multivariable analysis revealed that older age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] for 1-year increase = 1.12; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.07–1.18), female sex (aOR = 36.3; 95% CI = 7.57–174), lower BMI (aOR for 1 kg/m² decrease = 1.37; 95% CI = 1.14–1.65), and chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) infection (aOR = 6.70; 95% CI = 1.07–41.8) were independently associated with osteoporosis. Additionally, multivariable analysis in 165 patients whose serum E₂ and 25OHD levels were measured showed that both low E₂ levels (< 10 pg/mL) and lower 25OHD levels were independently associated with osteoporosis.

Conclusions

Middle-aged/elderly women with NTM-PD have a higher prevalence of osteoporosis than the general population. BMD screening should be considered in NTM-PD, especially in older females with severe diseases such as chronic PA infection and lower BMI, and low serum E₂ and 25OHD levels.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12890-022-01991-3.

Impact of chronic co-infection in pulmonary Mycobacterium avium complex disease after treatment initiation

Background

The impact of co-infection with other pathogenic microorganisms after initiation of treatment for Mycobacterium avium complex pulmonary disease (MAC-PD) has not been clearly described. This study sought to clarify the clinical outcomes of co-infection with MAC after antimycobacterial therapy for MAC.

Methods

Co-infection status was defined as the detection of pathogenic microorganisms other than MAC in at least two consecutive sputum cultures 6–24 months after initiation of treatment. Chest computed tomography (CT) findings and culture results were compared between co-infection and MAC alone groups.

Results

The co-infection and MAC alone groups comprised 12 and 36 patients, respectively. The proportion of patients with sputum culture positive for MAC after 24 months of therapy did not differ significantly between the two groups [25% (3/12) vs. 16.7% (6/36); p = 0.671]. The proportion of patients with improved chest CT score after 24 months of starting treatment compared to baseline was significantly lower for the co-infection group than for the MAC alone group [16.7% (2/12) vs. 79.4% (27/34); p < 0.001]. In the co-infection group, median CT score values at 12 and 24 months did not differ from baseline. However, the MAC alone group showed significant improvement at 12 and 24 months compared with baseline.

Conclusions

In the patient group with co-infection of other pathogenic microorganisms after treatment initiation for MAC there was no impact on therapeutic efficacy compared to the MAC alone group. However, therapeutic intervention interfered with improvement in chest CT findings such as nodule formation, bronchiectasis, infiltration, and cavitary lesions.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12890-022-01947-7.

Follow-up of a cohort of patients with noncystic fibrosis bronchiectasis for 1 year

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to evaluate the quality of life of patients with noncystic fibrosis bronchiectasis during a 1-year follow-up by using the EuroQol - 5 Dimensions - 3 Levels (EQ-5D-3L) questionnaire.

METHODS

A cohort study was conducted with 100 patients with noncystic fibrosis bronchiectasis and followed up with face-to-face visits or by telephone contact every 3 months for 1 year. All patients were recruited from a single referral center for bronchiectasis. At the time of recruiting and at the end of 1 year, the EQ-5D-3L questionnaire was applied to evaluate the patients' quality of life. Variables, such as exacerbation, emergency care, comorbidities, hemoptysis, colonization, and hospitalization, were assessed.

RESULTS

Of the 100 patients, 99 completed the study and 72% were women. There were no marked limitations in the mobility and self-care domains during the follow-up. At the end of the follow-up, 32 patients were extremely anxious or depressed. The quality of life assessed by using EQ-5D-3L had an initial mean score of 0.545 and of 0.589 after 1 year, which was statistically significant (p=0.011).

CONCLUSION

Patients with noncystic fibrosis bronchiectasis have a poor quality of life, and the EQ-5D-3L questionnaire may be a tool for monitoring patients with bronchiectasis.

Bronchiectasis in Low-Dose CT Screening for Lung Cancer

Background Bronchiectasis is associated with loss of lung function, substantial use of health care resources, and increased morbidity and mortality in people with cardiopulmonary diseases. Purpose To assess the frequency and severity of bronchiectasis and related clinical findings of participants in a low-dose CT (LDCT) screening program. Materials and Methods The Early Lung and Cardiac Action Program (ELCAP) bronchiectasis score (range, 0-42; higher values indicate more severe bronchiectasis) was developed to facilitate bronchiectasis assessment. This quantitative scoring system screened participants based on accumulated knowledge and improved CT imaging capabilities. Secondary review of LDCT studies from smokers aged 40-90 years was performed when they were initially enrolled in the prospective Mount Sinai ELCAP screening study between 2010 and 2019. Medical records were reviewed to identify associated respiratory symptoms and acute respiratory events during the 2 years after LDCT. Logistic regression analysis was performed to examine factors associated with bronchiectasis. Results LDCT studies of 2191 screening participants (mean age, 65 years ± 9; 1140 [52%] women) were obtained, and bronchiectasis was identified in 504 (23%) participants. Median ELCAP bronchiectasis score was 12 (interquartile range, 9-16). Bronchiectasis was most common in the lower lobes for all participants, and lower lobe prevalence was greater with higher ELCAP score (eg, 91% prevalence with an ELCAP score of 16-42). In the fourth quartile, however, midlung involvement was higher compared with lower lung involvement (128 of 131 participants [98%] vs 122 of 131 participants [93%]). Bronchiectasis was more frequent with greater age (odds ratio [OR] = 2.0 per decade; 95% CI: 1.7, 2.4); being a former smoker (OR = 1.33; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.73); and having self-reported chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (OR = 1.38; 95% CI: 1.02, 1.88), an elevated hemidiaphragm (OR = 4; 95% CI: 2, 11), or consolidation (OR = 5; 95% CI: 3, 11). It was less frequent in overweight (OR = 0.7; 95% CI: 0.5, 0.9) or obese (OR = 0.6; 95% CI: 0.4, 0.8) participants. Two years after baseline LDCT, respiratory symptoms, acute respiratory events, and respiratory events that required hospitalization were more frequent with increasing severity of the ELCAP bronchiectasis score (P < .005 for all trends). Conclusion Prevalence of bronchiectasis in smokers undergoing low-dose CT screening was high, and respiratory symptoms and acute events were more frequent with increasing severity of the Early Lung and Cardiac Action Program Bronchiectasis score. © RSNA, 2022 See also the editorial by Verschakelen in this issue.

Impacts of Nontuberculous Mycobacteria Isolates in Non-cystic Fibrosis Bronchiectasis: A 16-Year Cohort Study in Taiwan

Background

The prevalence of nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) in patients with chronic respiratory disease has increased. The implication of NTM in non-CF bronchiectasis remained controversial. This study investigated the impact of NTM in non-CF bronchiectasis in Taiwan.

Methods

Clinical manifestation, imaging, and microbiological data were retrieved from the Chang Gung Research Database, the largest electronic medical record-based database in Taiwan. Patients with bronchiectasis during 2001–2016 were included. Cox proportional hazard model was employed to compare outcomes between patients with negative and positive NTM isolates after 1:1 propensity score matching.

Results

A total of 19,647 non-CF bronchiectasis patients were enrolled and 11,492 patients were eligible for analysis after exclusion screening. Finally, patients with negative and positive NTM isolates—650 each—were analyzed after propensity score matching. The patients with negative NTM isolates were divided into three groups: Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates (n = 53); fungus isolates (n = 26); and concomitant P. aeruginosa and fungus isolates (n = 8). The patients with positive NTM isolates were divided into five groups: single NTM isolate (n = 458); multiple NTM isolates (n = 60); concomitant NTM and P. aeruginosa isolates (n = 89); concomitant NTM and fungus isolates (n = 33); and concomitant NTM, P. aeruginosa, and fungus isolates (n = 10). Patients with P. aeruginosa isolates; concomitant NTM and P. aeruginosa isolates; concomitant NTM, P. aeruginosa, and fungus isolates had independently associated with respiratory failure and death. Patients with single or multiple NTM isolates were not related to ventilator use, but both were independent risk factor for mortality.

Conclusion

NTM, either combined with P. aeruginosa or fungus, exhibited more frequent exacerbations in non-CF bronchiectasis patients. Moreover, NTM predicted mortality in non-CF bronchiectasis patients and were also correlated to respiratory failure while concomitantly isolated with P. aeruginosa and fungus.

Comparison of different sets of immunological tests to identify treatable immunodeficiencies in adult bronchiectasis patients

Background

The reported prevalence of immunodeficiencies in bronchiectasis patients is variable depending on the frequency and extent of immunological tests performed. European Respiratory Society guidelines recommend a minimum bundle of tests. Broadening the spectrum of immunological tests could increase the number of patients diagnosed with an immunodeficiency and those who could receive specific therapy. The primary objective of the present study was to assess the performance of different sets of immunological tests in diagnosing any, primary, secondary or treatable immunodeficiencies in adults with bronchiectasis.

Methods

An observational, cross-sectional study was conducted at the Bronchiectasis Program of the Policlinico University Hospital in Milan, Italy, from September 2016 to June 2019. Adult outpatients with a clinical and radiological diagnosis of bronchiectasis underwent the same immunological screening during the first visit when clinically stable consisting of: complete blood count; immunoglobulin (Ig) subclass tests for IgA, IgG, IgM and IgG; total IgE; lymphocyte subsets; and HIV antibodies. The primary endpoint was the prevalence of patients with any immunodeficiencies using five different sets of immunological tests.

Results

A total of 401 bronchiectasis patients underwent the immunological screening. A significantly different prevalence of bronchiectasis patients diagnosed with any, primary or secondary immunodeficiencies was found across different bundles. 44.6% of bronchiectasis patients had a diagnosis of immunodeficiency when IgG subclasses and lymphocyte subsets were added to the minimum bundle suggested by the guidelines.

Conclusion

A four-fold increase in the diagnosis of immunodeficiencies can be found in adults with bronchiectasis when IgG subclasses and lymphocyte subsets are added to the bundle of tests recommended by guidelines.

Just breathe: a review of sex and gender in chronic lung disease

Chronic lung diseases are the third leading cause of death worldwide and are increasing in prevalence over time. Although much of our traditional understanding of health and disease is derived from study of the male of the species - be it animal or human - there is increasing evidence that sex and gender contribute to differences in disease risk, prevalence, presentation, severity, treatment approach, response and outcomes. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma and bronchiectasis represent the most prevalent and studied chronic lung diseases and have key sex- and gender-based differences which are critical to consider and incorporate into clinical and research approaches. Mechanistic differences present opportunities for therapeutic development whereas behavioural and clinical differences on the part of patients and providers present opportunities for greater education and understanding at multiple levels. In this review, we seek to summarise the sex- and gender-based differences in key chronic lung diseases and outline the clinical and research implications for stakeholders.

Research advances and clinical management of bronchiectasis: Chinese perspective

Bronchiectasis is a debilitating chronic suppurative airway disease that confers a substantial burden globally. Despite the notable prevalence, research on bronchiectasis in mainland China remains in its infancy. Nevertheless, there has been a significant leap in the quantity and quality of research, which has contributed to the ever-improving clinical practice. A nationwide collaborative platform has been established to foster multicentre studies, which will help increase the level of evidence further. Here, we summarise the status quo of clinical management and consider the research priorities for bronchiectasis that have been published previously. We also highlight the efforts of the Chinese medical communities to outline the core tasks that need to be addressed within the next decade.

The remarkable progress made in bronchiectasis research has revolutionised clinical practice in mainland Chinahttps://bit.ly/3K8kQYr