Bronchiectasis: update of an orphan disease

Time to re-set our thinking about airways disease: lessons from history, the resurgence of chronic bronchitis / PBB and modern concepts in microbiology

In contrast to significant declines in deaths due to lung cancer and cardiac disease in Westernised countries, the mortality due to 'chronic obstructive pulmonary disease' (COPD) has minimally changed in recent decades while 'the incidence of bronchiectasis' is on the rise. The current focus on producing guidelines for these two airway 'diseases' has hindered progress in both treatment and prevention. The elephant in the room is that neither COPD nor bronchiectasis is a disease but rather a consequence of progressive untreated airway inflammation. To make this case, it is important to review the evolution of our understanding of airway disease and how a pathological appearance (bronchiectasis) and an arbitrary physiological marker of impaired airways (COPD) came to be labelled as 'diseases'. Valuable insights into the natural history of airway disease can be obtained from the pre-antibiotic era. The dramatic impacts of antibiotics on the prevalence of significant airway disease, especially in childhood and early adult life, have largely been forgotten and will be revisited as will the misinterpretation of trials undertaken in those with chronic (bacterial) bronchitis. In the past decades, paediatricians have observed a progressive increase in what is termed 'persistent bacterial bronchitis' (PBB). This condition shares all the same characteristics as 'chronic bronchitis', which is prevalent in young children during the pre-antibiotic era. Additionally, the radiological appearance of bronchiectasis is once again becoming more common in children and, more recently, in adults. Adult physicians remain sceptical about the existence of PBB; however, in one study aimed at assessing the efficacy of antibiotics in adults with persistent symptoms, researchers discovered that the majority of patients exhibiting symptoms of PBB were already on long-term macrolides. In recent decades, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of the respiratory microbiome and an understanding of the ability of bacteria to persist in potentially hostile environments through strategies such as biofilms, intracellular communities, and persister bacteria. This is a challenging field that will likely require new approaches to diagnosis and treatment; however, it needs to be embraced if real progress is to be made.

Adult outcomes of childhood bronchiectasis

Recent literature has highlighted the importance of transition from paediatric to adult care for children with chronic conditions. Non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis is an important cause of respiratory morbidity in low-income countries and in indigenous children from affluent countries; however, there is little information about adult outcomes of childhood bronchiectasis. We reviewed the clinical course of 31 Alaska Native adults 20-40 years of age from Alaska's Yukon Kuskokwim Delta with childhood bronchiectasis. In patients with chronic suppurative lung disease, a diagnosis of bronchiectasis was made at a median age of 4.5 years by computerised tomography (68%), bronchogram (26%), and radiographs (6%). The patients had a median of 75 lifetime respiratory ambulatory visits and 4.5 hospitalisations. As children, 6 (19%) experienced developmental delay; as adults 9 (29%) experienced mental illness or handicap. Four (13%) patients were deceased, four (13%) had severe pulmonary impairment in adulthood, 17 (54%) had persistent or intermittent respiratory symptoms, and seven (23%) were asymptomatic. In adulthood, only five were seen by adult pulmonologists and most had no documentation of a bronchiectasis diagnosis. Lack of provider continuity, remote location and co-morbidities can contribute to increased adult morbidity. Improving the transition to adult care starting in adolescence and educating adult providers may improve care of adults with childhood bronchiectasis.

Non-CF bronchiectasis: Orphan disease no longer

Bronchiectasis is a complex, chronic respiratory condition, characterized by frequent cough and exertional dyspnea due to a range of conditions that include inherited mucociliary defects, inhalational airway injury, immunodeficiency states and prior respiratory infections. For years, bronchiectasis was classified as either being caused by cystic fibrosis or non-cystic fibrosis. Non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis, once considered an orphan disease, is more prevalent worldwide in part due to greater availability of chest computed tomographic imaging. Identification of the cause of non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis with the use of chest imaging, laboratory testing, and microbiologic assessment of airway secretions can lead to initiation of specific therapies aimed at slowing disease progression. Nonpharmacologic therapies such as airway clearance techniques and pulmonary rehabilitation improve patient symptoms. Inhaled corticosteroids should not be routinely prescribed unless concomitant asthma or COPD is present. Inhaled antibiotics prescribed to individuals with >3 exacerbations per year are well tolerated, reduce airway bacteria load and may reduce the frequency of exacerbations. Likewise, chronic macrolide therapy reduces the frequency of exacerbations. Medical therapies for cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis may not be effective in treatment of non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Associated Chronic Lung Disease in Children and Adolescents in Zimbabwe: Chest Radiographic and High-Resolution Computed Tomographic Findings

Background

Chronic respiratory symptoms are common among children living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). We investigated the radiological features of chronic lung disease in children aged 6–16 years receiving antiretroviral therapy for ≥6 months in Harare, Zimbabwe.

Methods

Consecutive participants from a HIV clinic underwent clinical assessment and chest radiography. Participants with an abnormal chest radiograph (assessed by a clinician) and/or those meeting a clinical case definition for chronic lung disease underwent high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT). Radiological studies were scored independently and blindly by 2 thoracic radiologists. Relationships between radiological abnormalities and lung function were examined.

Results

Among 193 participants (46% female; median age, 11.2 years; interquartile range, 9.0–12.8 years), the median CD4 cell count was 720/µL (473–947/µL), and 79% had a human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) load of <400 copies/mL. The most common chest radiographic finding was ring/tramline opacities (55 of 193 participants; 29%). HRCT scans were evaluated in 84 participants (69%); decreased attenuation (present in 43%) was the dominant abnormality seen. The extent of decreased attenuation was strongly correlated with both the severity and extent of bronchiectasis (r_s = 0.68 and P < .001 for both). The extent of decreased attenuation was also negatively correlated with forced expiratory volume in first second of expiration (r_s = –0.52), forced vital capacity (r_s = –0.42), and forced expiratory flow, midexpiratory phase (r_s = –0.42) (P < .001 for all).

Conclusions

The HRCT findings strongly suggest that obliterative bronchiolitis may be the major cause of chronic lung disease in our cohort. Further studies to understand the pathogenesis and natural history are urgently needed.

Brazilian consensus on non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis is a condition that has been increasingly diagnosed by chest HRCT. In the literature, bronchiectasis is divided into bronchiectasis secondary to cystic fibrosis and bronchiectasis not associated with cystic fibrosis, which is termed non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis. Many causes can lead to the development of bronchiectasis, and patients usually have chronic airway symptoms, recurrent infections, and CT abnormalities consistent with the condition. The first international guideline on the diagnosis and treatment of non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis was published in 2010. In Brazil, this is the first review document aimed at systematizing the knowledge that has been accumulated on the subject to date. Because there is insufficient evidence on which to base recommendations for various treatment topics, here the decision was made to prepare an expert consensus document. The Brazilian Thoracic Association Committee on Respiratory Infections summoned 10 pulmonologists with expertise in bronchiectasis in Brazil to conduct a critical assessment of the available scientific evidence and international guidelines, as well as to identify aspects that are relevant to the understanding of the heterogeneity of bronchiectasis and to its diagnostic and therapeutic management. Five broad topics were established (pathophysiology, diagnosis, monitoring of stable patients, treatment of stable patients, and management of exacerbations). After this subdivision, the topics were distributed among the authors, who conducted a nonsystematic review of the literature, giving priority to major publications in the specific areas, including original articles, review articles, and systematic reviews. The authors reviewed and commented on all topics, producing a single final document that was approved by consensus.

Medical management of bronchiectasis

The medical management of bronchiectasis includes confirming the diagnosis of the disease, evaluating the patient for possible underlying etiologies and then properly assessing the patient for appropriate therapies. Patients with bronchiectasis are heterogeneous and a personalized approach to each patient is needed in order to properly formulate an optimal management plan.

Surgical management of non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis

Non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis (bronchiectasis) is an abnormal dilatation of the bronchi and bronchioles, resulting from a prolonged recurrent infectious process due to various causes and predisposing factors. This disease has several etiologies and affects a heterogeneous population of patients. The most important viewpoint for the surgical management of bronchiectasis is to select appropriate candidates for surgery and conduct suitable anatomic lung resections at the right time under appropriate conditions. The ideal candidates for lung resection are symptomatic patients with focal disease due to truly localized bronchial pathology regardless of optimal and absolute medical management.

The Role of the Immune Response in the Pathogenesis of Bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis is a prevalent respiratory condition characterised by permanent and abnormal dilation of the lung airways (bronchi). There are a large variety of causative factors that have been identified for bronchiectasis; all of these compromise the function of the immune response to fight infection. A triggering factor may lead to the establishment of chronic infection in the lower respiratory tract. The bacteria responsible for the lower respiratory tract infection are usually found as commensals in the upper respiratory tract microbiome. The consequent inflammatory response to infection is largely responsible for the pathology of this condition. Both innate and adaptive immune responses are activated. The literature has highlighted the central role of neutrophils in the pathogenesis of bronchiectasis. Proteases produced in the lung by the inflammatory response damage the airways and lead to the pathological dilation that is the pathognomonic feature of bronchiectasis. The small airways demonstrate infiltration with lymphoid follicles that may contribute to localised small airway obstruction. Despite aggressive treatment, most patients will have persistent disease. Manipulating the immune response in bronchiectasis may potentially have therapeutic potential.

A review of the etiology and clinical presentation of non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis: A tertiary care experience

INTRODUCTION

Non-cystic fibrosis(CF) bronchiectasis has been recognized in children for the past 200 years. Early childhood pneumonia and underlying conditions such as immunodeficiency, primary ciliary dyskinesia(PCD), and congenital lung pathology should be considered in the etiology. The aim of our study was to describe the clinical characteristics, laboratory, and radiological findings of a large population of patients with non-CF bronchiectasis at a tertiary center.

METHODS

We analyzed the clinical findings of 187 patients diagnosed with non-CF bronchiectasis over a period of 10 years (January 2005-December 2015) at the Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine Department of Pediatric Pulmonology.

RESULTS

The median age at the time of diagnosis of non-CF bronchiectasis was 8 years (1-18 years). Consanguinity was positive in 59.4% (n = 111) of patients and 19.8% (n = 37) of patients had a positive family history for non-CF bronchiectasis. Common causes were PCD in 51.3% (n = 96), immunodeficiency in 15% (n = 28), history of tuberculosis in 5.9% (n = 11), post-infectious complication in 3.2% (n = 6) and other anomalies in 2.1% (n = 4) of patients. The frequency of pulmonary lobe involvement was as follows: 71.1% left-lower lobe, 59.4% right lower lobe, 54% right-middle lobe, 26.8% left lingula, 13.9% right upper lobe, and 9.6% left upper lobe.

CONCLUSIONS

Diagnosis of non-CF bronchiectasis is often delayed because of a failure to recognize the significance of symptoms. Through clinical investigation, including a HRCT scan of the chest, sweat test, studies of immune function, and ciliary function in a child with a prolonged suppurative cough, remains important. In Turkey, the most common causes of non-CF bronchiectasis are PCD and immunodeficiency, related to a high frequency of consanguinity.

Noninvasive Ventilation for Acute Respiratory Failure due to Noncystic Fibrosis Bronchiectasis

Purpose of the Study:

Data regarding the use of noninvasive ventilation (NIV) for treatment of acute respiratory failure (ARF) among patients with noncystic fibrosis (CF) bronchiectasis are limited. We intend to describe our experience with NIV use in this setting.

Methodology:

This was a retrospective study which included 99 patients with bronchiectasis and ARF who required either NIV or invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV).

Results:

NIV was started as the primary modality of ventilatory support in 81 (66.3%) patients. Fifty-three (65.4%) patients were managed successfully with NIV. Twenty-eight (34.56%) patients failed NIV and required endotracheal intubation. Reasons for NIV failure were worsening or nonimprovement of ventilatory or oxygenation parameters (n = 15), hypotension (n = 6), worsening of sensorium (n = 3), and intolerance (n = 4). None of the patients failed NIV due to excessive respiratory secretions. The rate of correction of arterial blood gases was comparable between NIV and IMV groups. The total duration of stay (median [interquartile range] days) in hospital was comparable between patients treated with NIV and IMV (8 [7–10] vs. 11 [5–11]; P = 0.99), respectively. The mortality rate between NIV and IMV groups were statistically comparable (8.64% vs. 16.6%; P = 0.08). High APACHE score at admission was associated with NIV failure (odd's ratio [95% confidence interval]: 1.21 (1.07–1.38)].

Conclusions:

NIV is feasible for management of ARF with non-CF bronchiectasis. High APACHE may predict NIV failure among these patients.

Role of vitamin D in cystic fibrosis and non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis is usually classified as cystic fibrosis (CF) related or CF unrelated (non-CF); the latter is not considered an orphan disease any more, even in developed countries. Irrespective of the underlying etiology, bronchiectasis is the result of interaction between host, pathogens, and environment. Vitamin D is known to be involved in a wide spectrum of significant immunomodulatory effects such as down-regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Respiratory epithelial cells constitutively express 1α-hydroxylase leading to the local transformation of the inactive 25(OH)-vitamin D to the active 1,25(OH)₂-vitamin D. The latter through its autocrine and paracrine functions up-regulates vitamin D dependent genes with important consequences in the local immunity of lungs. Despite the scarcity of direct evidence on the involvement of vitamin D deficiency states in the development of bronchiectasis in either CF or non-CF patients, it is reasonable to postulate that vitamin D may play some role in the pathogenesis of lung diseases and especially bronchiectasis. The potential contribution of vitamin D deficiency in the process of bronchiectasis is of particular clinical importance, taking into consideration the increasing prevalence of vitamin D deficiency worldwide and the significant morbidity of bronchiectasis. Given the well-established association of vitamin D deficiency with increased inflammation, and the indicative evidence for harmful consequences in lungs, it is intriguing to speculate that the administration of vitamin D supplementation could be a reasonable and cost effective supplementary therapeutic approach for children with non-CF bronchiectasis. Regarding CF patients, maybe in the future as more data become available, we have to re-evaluate our policy on the most appropriate dosage scheme for vitamin D.

Clinical impact of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease on non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis. A study on 1,790 patients from the Spanish Bronchiectasis Historical Registry

Background

Few studies have evaluated the coexistence of bronchiectasis (BE) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in series of patients diagnosed primarily with BE. The aim of this study was to analyse the characteristics of patients with BE associated with COPD included in the Spanish Bronchiectasis Historical Registry and compare them to the remaining patients with non-cystic fibrosis BE.

Methods

We conducted a multicentre observational study of historical cohorts, analysing the characteristics of 1,790 patients who had been included in the registry between 2002 and 2011. Of these, 158 (8.8%) were registered as BE related to COPD and were compared to the remaining patients with BE of other aetiologies.

Results

Patients with COPD were mostly male, older, had a poorer respiratory function and more frequent exacerbations. There were no differences in the proportion of patients with chronic bronchial colonisation or in the isolated microorganisms. A significantly larger proportion of patients with COPD received treatment with bronchodilators, inhaled steroids and intravenous antibiotics, but there was no difference in the use of long term oral or inhaled antibiotherapy. During a follow-up period of 3.36 years, the overall proportion of deaths was 13.8%. When compared to the remaining aetiologies, patients with BE associated with COPD presented the highest mortality rate. The multivariate analysis showed that the diagnosis of COPD in a patient with BE as a primary diagnosis increased the risk of death by 1.77.

Conclusion

Patients with BE related to COPD have the same microbiological characteristics as patients with BE due to other aetiologies. They receive treatment with long term oral and inhaled antibiotics aimed at controlling chronic bronchial colonisation, even though the current COPD treatment guidelines do not envisage this type of therapy. These patients’ mortality is notably higher than that of remaining patients with non-cystic fibrosis BE.

The Epidemiology of Chronic Suppurative Lung Disease and Bronchiectasis in Children and Adolescents

In the modern era, the global burden of childhood chronic suppurative lung disease (CSLD) remains poorly captured by the literature. What is clear, however, is that CSLD is essentially a disease of poverty. Disadvantaged children from indigenous and low- and middle-income populations had a substantially higher burden of CSLD, generally infectious in etiology and of a more severe nature, than children in high-income countries. A universal issue was the delay in diagnosis and the inconsistent reporting of clinical features. Importantly, infection-related CSLD is largely preventable. A considerable research and clinical effort is needed to identify modifiable risk factors and socioeconomic determinants of CSLD and provide robust evidence to guide optimal prevention and management strategies. The purpose of this review was to update the international literature on the epidemiology, etiology, and clinical features of pediatric CSLD.

Virulence adaptations of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from patients with non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a major pathogen in chronic lung diseases such as cystic fibrosis (CF) and non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis (nCFB). Much of our understanding regarding infections in nCFB patients is extrapolated from findings in CF with little direct investigation on the adaptation of P. aeruginosa in nCFB patients. As such, we investigated whether the adaptation of P. aeruginosa was indeed similar between nCFB and CF. From our prospectively collected biobank, we identified 40 nCFB patients who had repeated P. aeruginosa isolates separated by ≥6 months and compared these to a control population of 28 CF patients. A total of 84 nCFB isolates [40 early (defined as the earliest isolate in the biobank) and 41 late (defined as the last available isolate in the biobank)] were compared to 83 CF isolates (39 early and 44 late). We assessed the isolates for protease, lipase and elastase production; mucoid phenotype; swarm and swim motility; biofilm production; and the presence of the lasR mutant phenotype. Overall, we observed phenotypic heterogeneity in both nCFB and CF isolates and found that P. aeruginosa adapted to the nCFB lung environment similarly to the way observed in CF isolates in terms of protease and elastase expression, motility and biofilm formation. However, significant differences between nCFB and CF isolates were observed in lipase expression, which may allude to distinct characteristics found in the lung environment of nCFB patients. We also sought to determine virulence potential over time in nCFB P. aeruginosa isolates and found that virulence decreased over time, similar to CF.

Time Trends in Hospital Admissions for Bronchiectasis: Analysis of the Spanish National Hospital Discharge Data (2004 to 2013)

OBJECTIVE

To analyze changes in the incidence, diagnostic procedures, comorbidity, length of hospital stay (LOHS), costs and in-hospital mortality (IHM) for patients with bronchiectasis who were hospitalized in Spain over a 10-year period.

METHODS

We included all admissions for patients diagnosed with bronchiectasis as primary or secondary diagnosis during 2004-2013.

RESULTS

282,207 patients were admitted to the study. After controlling for possible confounders, we observed a significant increase in the incidence of hospitalizations over the study period when bronchiectasis was a secondary diagnosis. When bronchiectasis was the primary diagnosis we observed a significant decline in the incidence. In all cases, this pathology was more frequent in males, and the average age and comorbidity increased significantly during the study period (p<0.001). When bronchiectasis was the primary diagnosis, the most frequent secondary diagnosis was Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection. When bronchiectasis was the secondary diagnosis, the most frequent primary diagnosis was COPD. IHM was low, tending to decrease from 2004 to 2013 (p<0.05). The average LOHS decreased significantly during the study period in both cases (p<0.001). The mean cost per patient decreased in patients with bronchiectasis as primary diagnosis, but it increased for cases of bronchiectasis as secondary diagnosis (p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results reveal an increase in the incidence of hospital admissions for patients with bronchiectasis as a secondary diagnosis from 2004 to 2013, as opposed to cases of bronchiectasis as the primary diagnosis. Although the average age and comorbidity significantly increased over time, both IHM and average LOHS significantly decreased.

Pediatric bronchiectasis: No longer an orphan disease

Bronchiectasis is described classically as a chronic pulmonary disorder characterized by a persistent productive cough and irreversible dilatation of one or more bronchi. However, in children unable to expectorate, cough may instead be wet and intermittent and bronchial dilatation reversible in the early stages. Although still considered an orphan disease, it is being recognized increasingly as causing significant morbidity and mortality in children and adults in both affluent and developing countries. While bronchiectasis has multiple etiologies, the final common pathway involves a complex interplay between the host, respiratory pathogens and environmental factors. These interactions lead to a vicious cycle of repeated infections, airway inflammation and tissue remodelling resulting in impaired airway clearance, destruction of structural elements within the bronchial wall causing them to become dilated and small airway obstruction. In this review, the current knowledge of the epidemiology, pathobiology, clinical features, and management of bronchiectasis in children are summarized. Recent evidence has emerged to improve our understanding of this heterogeneous disease including the role of viruses, and how antibiotics, novel drugs, antiviral agents, and vaccines might be used. Importantly, the management is no longer dependent upon extrapolating from the cystic fibrosis experience. Nevertheless, substantial information gaps remain in determining the underlying disease mechanisms that initiate and sustain the pathophysiological pathways leading to bronchiectasis. National and international collaborations, standardizing definitions of clinical and research end points, and exploring novel primary prevention strategies are needed if further progress is to be made in understanding, treating and even preventing this often life-limiting disease.

Bronchiectasis: a bacteriological profile

The occurrence of bronchiectasis can involve a combination of many environmental factors, including infection. The aim of our work is to determine the bacteriological profile of bronchiectasis. This is a retrospective study of 100 patients hospitalized in between January 2010 and July 2013. The average age was 48 years with a 58% female predominance. Symptomatology was by a bronchial syndrome in 90% of cases. Bacteriological examination was able to isolate the microbe in 35% of cases. In our study it was through the examination of sputum cytology in 27% of cases, through the examination of liquid bronchial aspiration in 5% of cases, and through direct examination of sputum in search of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in 3% of cases. Microbes isolated were: Streptococcus pneumonia in 11 cases; Pseudomonas aeruginosa in 10 cases, Klebsiella pneumonia and Mycobacterium tuberculosis in 3 cases each; Moraxella catarrhalis, Haemophilus influenzae, Escherichia coli, Citrobacter spp, Serratia marcescens, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii and Staphylococcus aureus in one case each. Through this work, the authors highlight that Streptococcus pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are the most commonly- identified microbes in their patients. It is necessary to have a full bacterial examination and to repeat it regularly over the course of the bronchiectasis.

Impact of different etiologies of bronchiectasis on the pulmonary function tests

BACKGROUND

Bronchiectasis develops along the natural course of several respiratory and systemic conditions and induces significant changes in the morphofunctional structure of airways. Our objective was to assess the impact of various causes of bronchiectasis on clinical data, pulmonary function tests, and high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT).

METHODS

The present report was a cross-sectional study that was conducted with 112 consecutive patients with bronchiectasis, who were allocated to five groups, as follows: sequelae of tuberculosis, history of non-tuberculosis infection, cystic fibrosis (CF), primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD), and rheumatoid arthritis. All of the participants underwent spirometry, whole-body plethysmography, measurement of the diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLco), and HRCT.

RESULTS

The highest HRCT score was exhibited in patients with CF (6.03 ± 1.03). The values of forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) (52.2 ± 17.7%) and DLco (74.1 ± 15.2%) were lower in patients with sequelae of tuberculosis. The increase in the residual volume was more accentuated in the patients with CF (193.5 ± 39.5%) and PCD (189 ± 36.4%). By the multivariate analysis, the cause of FEV1 and bronchiectasis, HRCT score, and degree of dyspnea behaved as independent predictors of DLco.

CONCLUSION

In individuals with bronchiectasis, the pulmonary function abnormalities are associated with the etiology of the underlying disease.

Respiratory exacerbations in indigenous children from two countries with non-cystic fibrosis chronic suppurative lung disease/bronchiectasis

BACKGROUND

Acute respiratory exacerbations (AREs) cause morbidity and lung function decline in children with chronic suppurative lung disease (CSLD) and bronchiectasis. In a prospective longitudinal cohort study, we determined the patterns of AREs and factors related to increased risks for AREs in children with CSLD/bronchiectasis.

METHODS

Ninety-three indigenous children aged 0.5 to 8 years with CSLD/bronchiectasis in Australia (n = 57) and Alaska (n = 36) during 2004 to 2009 were followed for > 3 years. Standardized parent interviews, physical examinations, and medical record reviews were undertaken at enrollment and every 3 to 6 months thereafter.

RESULTS

Ninety-three children experienced 280 AREs (median = 2, range = 0-11 per child) during the 3-year period; 91 (32%) were associated with pneumonia, and 43 (15%) resulted in hospitalization. Of the 93 children, 69 (74%) experienced more than two AREs over the 3-year period, and 28 (30%) had more than one ARE in each study year. The frequency of AREs declined significantly over each year of follow-up. Factors associated with recurrent (two or more) AREs included age < 3 years, ARE-related hospitalization in the first year of life, and pneumonia or hospitalization for ARE in the year preceding enrollment. Factors associated with hospitalizations for AREs in the first year of study included age < 3 years, female caregiver education, and regular use of bronchodilators.

CONCLUSIONS

AREs are common in children with CSLD/bronchiectasis, but with clinical care and time AREs occur less frequently. All children with CSLD/bronchiectasis require comprehensive care; however, treatment strategies may differ for these patients based on their changing risks for AREs during each year of care.

Rare presentation of bronchiectasis with multiple bronchial stones

The incidence of bronchiectasis has declined markedly in developed countries with improvement in health care, antibiotics, vaccines and control of tuberculosis (<0.6/1000 persons), but is still high in developing countries. Early complete resection of affected lung segment remains the mainstay of treatment as it causes maximum improvement in symptoms, minimum deterioration of lung function and prevents disease progression. Surgery is indicated in unsuccessful medical treatment and complications of bronchiectasis e.g. haemoptysis, lung abscess, lung masses and pneumothorax. Bronchiectasis with multiple broncholithiasis is a very rare presentation and very few cases have been reported in literature so far. This article presents here, the symptoms and signs, operative and perioperative management and literature review of a case of bronchiectasis with multiple bronchial stones.

Prevalence of nontuberculous mycobacteria in patients with bronchiectasis: a meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) have emerged as critical opportunistic pathogens of lung diseases recently. Patients with preexisting bronchiectasis are susceptible to NTM. Nevertheless, patients with preexisting bronchiectasis are susceptible to NTM but the prevalence of NTM pulmonary infection in different species and geographical areas is still not fully understood.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The relevant data of the prevalence of NTM in patients with bronchiectasis were retrieved by searching the main databases such as PubMed, MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE. This meta-analysis was performed using Rev. Man 5.1 and Stata 11.0 software. The collected information of NTM prevalence was chosen as the effect size.

RESULTS

The results of the meta-analysis showed that the overall prevalence of NTM was 9.3% in patients with bronchiectasis. The further stratification of subgroup analysis indicated that the combined prevalence of NTM was higher in studies whose "sample size" was more than or equal to 100 (p = 0.002), in studies in which "time of study" was after or equal to 2002 (p < 0.001), in studies in which "participants' geographic location" was Asian (p < 0.001) and in studies whose "method of study" was retrospective (p = 0.002) as well, compared with corresponding groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggested that the prevalence NTM infection is high in patients with bronchiectasis. A larger number of definitive randomized trials are still required to assess this research issue.

Sleep disturbances and health-related quality of life in adults with steady-state bronchiectasis

Background

Sleep disturbances are common in patients with chronic lung diseases, but little is known about the prevalence in patients with bronchiectasis. A cross sectional study was conducted to investigate the prevalence and determinants associated with sleep disturbances, and the correlation between sleep disturbances and quality of life (QoL) in adults with steady-state bronchiectasis.

Methods

One hundred and forty-four bronchiectasis patients and eighty healthy subjects were enrolled. Sleep disturbances, daytime sleepiness, and QoL were measured by utilizing the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) and St. George Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ), respectively. Demographic, clinical indices, radiology, spirometry, bacteriology, anxiety and depression were also assessed.

Results

Adults with steady-state bronchiectasis had a higher prevalence of sleep disturbances (PSQI>5) (57% vs. 29%, P<0.001), but not daytime sleepiness (ESS≥10) (32% vs. 30%, P = 0.76), compared with healthy subjects. In the multivariate model, determinants associated with sleep disturbances in bronchiectasis patients included depression (OR, 10.09; 95% CI, 3.46–29.37; P<0.001), nocturnal cough (OR, 1.89; 95% CI, 1.13–3.18; P = 0.016), aging (OR, 1.04; 95% CI, 1.01–1.07; P = 0.009) and increased 24-hour sputum volume (OR, 2.01; 95% CI, 1.22–3.33; P = 0.006). Patients with sleep disturbances had more significantly impaired QoL affecting all domains than those without. Only 6.2% of patients reported using a sleep medication at least weekly.

Conclusions

In adults with steady-state bronchiectasis, sleep disturbances are more common than in healthy subjects and are related to poorer QoL. Determinants associated with sleep disturbances include depression, aging, nighttime cough and increased sputum volume. Assessment and intervention of sleep disturbances are warranted and may improve QoL.

Indigenous children from three countries with non-cystic fibrosis chronic suppurative lung disease/bronchiectasis

OBJECTIVE

Indigenous children in developed countries are at increased risk of chronic suppurative lung disease (CSLD), including bronchiectasis. We evaluated sociodemographic and medical factors in indigenous children with CSLD/bronchiectasis from Australia, United States (US), and New Zealand (NZ).

METHODS

Indigenous children aged 0.5-8 years with CSLD/bronchiectasis were enrolled from specialist clinics in Australia (n = 97), Alaska (n = 41), and NZ (n = 42) during 2004-2009, and followed for 1-5 years. Research staff administered standardized parent interviews, reviewed medical histories and performed physical examinations at enrollment.

RESULTS

Study children in all three countries had poor housing and sociodemographic circumstances at enrollment. Except for increased household crowding, most poverty indices in study participants were similar to those reported for their respective local indigenous populations. However, compared to their local indigenous populations, study children were more often born prematurely and had both an increased frequency and earlier onset of acute lower respiratory infections (ALRIs). Most (95%) study participants had prior ALRI hospitalizations and 77% reported a chronic cough in the past year. Significant differences (wheeze, ear disease and plumbed water) between countries were present.

DISCUSSION

Indigenous children with CSLD/bronchiectasis from three developed countries experience significant disparities in poverty indices in common with their respective indigenous population; however, household crowding, prematurity and early ALRIs were more common in study children than their local indigenous population. Addressing equity, especially by preventing prematurity and ALRIs, should reduce risk of CSLD/bronchiectasis in indigenous children.

Bronchiectasis

The frequency of diagnosing bronchiectasis is increasing around the world. Cystic fibrosis is the most common inherited cause of bronchiectasis, but there is increasing recognition of significant numbers of patients with bronchiectasis from various causes. With increasing awareness of bronchiectasis, a significant number of research, concerning the causes and treatments, were published over the past few years. Investigation of the underlying cause of bronchiectasis is the most important key to effective management. The purpose of this report is to review the immunological abnormalities that cause bronchiectasis in those that the cystic fibrosis has been excluded, identify the available evidences of current management, and discuss several controversies in the treatment of this disorder.

Trends in bronchiectasis among medicare beneficiaries in the United States, 2000 to 2007

BACKGROUND

Bronchiectasis is a potentially serious condition characterized by permanent and abnormal widening of the airways, the prevalence of which is not well described. We sought to describe the trends, associated conditions, and risk factors for bronchiectasis among adults aged ≥ 65 years.

METHODS

A 5% sample of the Medicare outpatient claims database was analyzed for bronchiectasis trends among beneficiaries aged ≥ 65 years from 2000 to 2007. Bronchiectasis was identified using International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification claim diagnosis codes for acquired bronchiectasis. Period prevalence was used to describe sex- and race/ethnicity-specific rates, and annual prevalence was used to describe trends and age-specific rates. We estimated trends using Poisson regression and odds of bronchiectasis using multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS

From 2000 to 2007, 22,296 people had at least one claim for bronchiectasis. The 8-year period prevalence of bronchiectasis was 1,106 cases per 100,000 people. Bronchiectasis increased by 8.7% per year. We identified an interaction between the number of thoracic CT scans and race/ethnicity; period prevalence varied by a greater degree by number of thoracic CT scans among Asians compared with whites or blacks. Among people with one CT scan, Asians had a 2.5- and 3.9-fold higher period prevalence compared with whites and blacks.

CONCLUSIONS

Bronchiectasis prevalence increased significantly from 2000 to 2007 in the Medicare outpatient setting and varied by age, sex, and race/ethnicity. This increase could be due to a true increase in the condition or an increased recognition of previously undiagnosed cases.

A pilot study of pulmonary rehabilitation and chest physiotherapy versus chest physiotherapy alone in bronchiectasis

AIM

The aim of our study was to assess the efficacy of pulmonary rehabilitation in addition to regular chest physiotherapy in non cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis.

METHODS

Thirty patients with clinically significant bronchiectasis and limited exercise tolerance were randomized into either the control group receiving chest physiotherapy (8 weeks) or into the intervention group, receiving pulmonary rehabilitation in addition to chest physiotherapy (8 weeks). Both groups were encouraged to maintain their exercise program and or chest physiotherapy, following completion of the study.

RESULTS

End of training (8 weeks) No improvement in control group. In the intervention group, incremental shuttle walk test (ISWT) improved by 56.7 m (p = 0.03), endurance walk test (EWT) by 193.3 m (p = 0.01), Leicester Cough Questionnaire (LCQ) improved by 2.6 units (p < 0.001) and St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) by 8 units (p < 0.001). At 20 weeks (12 weeks post end of training) No improvement in control group. In the intervention group, ISWT improved by 80 m (p = 0.04) and EWT by 247.5 m (p = 0.003). LCQ improved by 4.4 units (p < 0.001) and SGRQ by 4 units (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Pulmonary rehabilitation in addition to regular chest physiotherapy, improves exercise tolerance and health related quality of life in non cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis and the benefit was sustained at 12 weeks post end of pulmonary rehabilitation. Clinical trials regn no. NCT00868075.

Risk factors that affect the surgical outcome in the management of focal bronchiectasis in a developed country

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate our surgical experience for focal bronchiectasis in the setting of modern diagnostic modalities and state-of-the-art medical treatment in a developed country.

METHODS

Thirty-one patients undergoing 33 lung resections for the treatment of focal bronchiectasis from 1991 to 2009 were reviewed. The mean age was 54 years. Twenty-nine patients (94%) were female; 21 patients (68%) had nontuberculous mycobacterial infection; and 22 patients (71%) received preoperative multiple-drug regimens containing clarithromycin. Five patients (16%) were in an immunocompromised status. All were diagnosed by chest computed tomography scan, and either the right middle lobe or left lingula were involved in 29 (94%). The curve for relapse-free interval was estimated by Kaplan-Meier methods. The factors that affected this curve were examined using Cox's regression analysis.

RESULTS

Operative morbidity and mortality were 18% and 0%, respectively. All patients became asymptomatic postoperatively. During the median follow-up of 48 months (11 to 216), 8 patients (26%) experienced recurrence, and the mean relapse-free interval was 34 months (3 to 216). By univariate analysis, an immunocompromised status (p=0.017), Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection (p=0.040), the preoperative extent of bronchiectatic lesion (p=0.013), and the extent of residual bronchiectasis after surgery (p=0.003) were significantly associated with the shorter relapse-free interval. By multivariate analysis, an immunocompromised status (p=0.039), Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection (p=0.033), and the extent of residual bronchiectasis (p=0.009) were independent and significant factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Complete resection of bronchiectasis while the disease is localized and is free from Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection is the key for a success. Also, immunocompromised status was suggested to be a risk factor.

[Are investigations for underlying causes needed for the management of an adult patient with bronchiectasis?]

Bronchiectasis may result from various causes. Recognition of these underlying causes may lead to specific management. Focal bronchiectasis are related to luminal blockage or extrinsic narrowing. The causative factors of diffuse bronchiectasis may be suggested by the predominant distribution of the disease and associated extrapulmonary manifestations. Primary immunodeficiencies cystic fibrosis, allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, chronic Mycobacterium avium complex infection, and systemic diseases have to be looked for, even in patients with knowledge of a childhood respiratory infection.

[Treatment of non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis]

Bronchiectasis is currently growing in importance due to both the increase in the number of diagnoses made as well as the negative impact that its presence has on the baseline disease that generates it. A fundamental aspect in these patients is the colonization and infection of the bronchial mucous by potentially pathogenic microorganisms (PPM), which are the cause in most cases of the start of the chronic inflammatory process that results in the destruction and dilatation of the bronchial tree that is characteristic in these patients. The treatment of the colonization and chronic bronchial infection in these patients should be based on prolonged antibiotic therapy in its different presentations. Lately, the inhaled form is becoming especially prominent due to its high efficacy and limited production of important adverse effects. However, one must not overlook the fact that the management of patients with bronchiectasis should be multidisciplinary and multidimensional. In addition to antibiotic treatment, the collaboration of different medical and surgical specialties is essential for the management of the exacerbations, nutritional aspects, respiratory physiotherapy, muscle rehabilitation, complications, inflammation and bronchial hyperreactivity and the hypersecretion that characterizes these patients.

Clinical, radiologic, and functional evaluation of 304 patients with bronchiectasis

BACKGROUND

Bronchiectasis continues to be one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality in developing countries, with a probably underestimated higher prevalence than in developed countries.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the clinical profile of adult patients with bronchiectasis.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the clinical, radiologic, and physiologic findings of 304 patients with bronchiectasis confirmed by high-resolution computed tomography.

RESULTS

Mean age of participants (45.7% males, 54.3% females) was 56 ± 25 years and 65.8% of them were lifetime non-smokers. Most common identified causes of bronchiectasis were childhood disease (22.7%), tuberculosis (15.5%), and pneumonia (11.5%). The predominant symptoms were productive cough (83.6%), dyspnea (72%), and hemoptysis (21.1%). The most common findings on chest examination were crackles (71.1%) and rhonchi (28.3%). Types of bronchiectasis were cylindrical in 47%, varicose in 9.9%, cystic in 45.1%, and multiple types in 24.3%. Involvement was multilobar in 75.3% and bilateral in 62.5%. Of 274 patients, 20.8% displayed normal pulmonary function test results, whereas 47.4%, 8% and 23.7% showed obstructive, restrictive, and mixed pattern, respectively. Patients with cystic disease had a higher frequency of hemoptysis (42%) and a greater degree of functional impairment, compared to other types.

CONCLUSION

In patients with bronchiectasis from southern Turkey, generally presenting with recurrent productive cough, hemoptysis, dyspnea, and persistent bibasilar rales, the etiology remains mainly idiopathic. Post-infectious bronchial destruction is one of the major identified underlying pathological processes. The clinical picture and the deterioration of the pulmonary function test might be more severe in patients with cystic type bronchiectasis.

Differences and similarities in non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis between developing and affluent countries

Non-CF bronchiectasis remains a major cause of morbidity not only in developing countries but in some indigenous groups of affluent countries. Although there is a decline in the prevalence and incidence in developed countries, recent studies in indigenous populations report higher prevalence. Due to the lack of such data, epidemiological studies are required to find the incidence and prevalence in developing countries. Although the main characteristics of bronchiectasis are similar in developing and affluent countries, underlying aetiology, nutritional status, frequency of exacerbations and severity of the disease are different. Delay of diagnosis is surprisingly similar in the affluent and developing countries possibly due to different reasons. Long-term studies are needed for evidence based management of the disease. Successful management and prevention of bronchiectasis require a multidisciplinary approach, while the lack of resources is still a major problem in the developing countries.

Trends and burden of bronchiectasis-associated hospitalizations in the United States, 1993-2006

BACKGROUND

Current data on bronchiectasis prevalence, trends, and risk factors are lacking; such data are needed to estimate the burden of disease and for improved medical care and public health resource allocation. The objective of the present study was to estimate the trends and burden of bronchiectasis-associated hospitalizations in the United States.

METHODS

We extracted hospital discharge records containing International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, Clinical Modification codes for bronchiectasis (494, 494.0, and 494.1) as any discharge diagnosis from the State Inpatient Databases from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Discharge records were extracted for 12 states with complete and continuous reporting from 1993 to 2006.

RESULTS

The average annual age-adjusted hospitalization rate from 1993 to 2006 was 16.5 hospitalizations per 100,000 population. From 1993 to 2006, the age-adjusted rate increased significantly, with an average annual percentage increase of 2.4% among men and 3.0% among women. Women and persons aged > 60 years had the highest rate of bronchiectasis-associated hospitalizations. The median cost for inpatient care was 7,827 US dollars (USD) (range, 13-543,914 USD).

CONCLUSIONS

The average annual age-adjusted rate of bronchiectasis-associated hospitalizations increased from 1993 to 2006. This study furthers the understanding of the impact of bronchiectasis and demonstrates the need for further research to identify risk factors and reasons for the increasing burden.

Surgical treatment of bronchiectasis: a retrospective analysis of 790 patients

BACKGROUND

The global incidence of bronchiectasis is increasing, and this disease is prevalent in rural China. This study examined operative mortality, morbidity, and outcomes of surgery for bronchiectasis at a single institution in China.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 790 consecutive patients who underwent surgery for bronchiectasis in our department between January 1989 and December 2008. Localized bronchiectasis was diagnosed by high-resolution computed tomography. The persistence of symptoms after failure of nonsurgical treatment was an indication for surgery. Cystic fibrosis patients were excluded from this study.

RESULTS

The study sample included 790 patients (466 male, 324 female) who underwent 810 operations for bronchiectasis. Mean age at time of surgery was 41.6 years (range, 6 to 79 years). Several surgical procedures were used: lobectomy (497; 62.9%), segment resection (37; 4.7%), pneumonectomy (90; 11.3%), bilobectomy (56; 7.1%), and lobectomy and segmentectomy (110; 14.0%). There were no intraoperative deaths. Nine (1.1%) patients died in the postoperative period. Univariate analysis showed that advanced age (p = 0.04) and renal failure (p = 0.001) were associated with postoperative mortality, and multivariate analysis revealed that preoperative renal failure was associated with mortality (p = 0.025). The mean follow-up time was 4.2 years (range, 10 months to 10 years). After surgery, 478 (60.5%) patients were asymptomatic, 111 (14.1%) had improved, and 117 (14.8%) showed no improvement or worsened condition.

CONCLUSIONS

Localized bronchiectasis is usually the indication for surgical resection, which is a safe procedure with acceptable operative morbidity, mortality, and outcomes.

A review of 151 cases of pediatric noncystic fibrosis bronchiectasis in a tertiary care center

OBJECTIVE:

This study was conducted to review the etiological factors and diseases associated with pediatric noncystic fibrosis bronchiectasis in a tertiary care center in Saudi Arabia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A retrospective review of all patients with confirmed noncystic fibrosis (Non-CF) bronchiectasis by chest X-ray and/or CT chest in a pulmonary clinic during the period 1993–2005 at a tertiary care center in Riyadh.

RESULTS:

A total of 151 cases were diagnosed as Non-CF bronchiectasis. Seventy-five (49.7%) were male, 76 (50.3%) were female; 148 (98%) are alive and 3 (2%) died. The southwestern regions constituted 72 (50%) of the cases. There was a period of (5 ± 3.2) years between the start of symptoms and diagnosis of bronchiectasis. More than two-thirds of the patients had cough, tachypnea, wheezing, sputum production and failure to thrive. Ninety-one (60%) had associated diseases: Pulmonary diseases in 48 (32%), immunodeficiency in 27 (18%), central nervous system anomalies in 10 (7%), cardiac in 10 (7%) and asthma in 103 (68%) of the patients. Left lower lobe was commonly involved in 114 (76%) patients. Sixty-eight (67%) were found to have sinusitis. More than two-thirds of patients had two or more associated diseases. Forty-nine (32%) developed gastroesophageal reflux. Hemophilus influenza was cultured in 56 (37%), strept pneumoniae in 25 (17%) and pseudomonas aeruginosa in 24 (16%) of the patients. Eighty percent of the patients who had pulmonary function test had abnormal changes. Disease progression was related to development of symptoms before 5 years of age, persistent atelectasis and right lower lobe involvement (P< 0.05).

CONCLUSION:

Non-CF bronchiectasis should be included in the differential diagnosis of recurrent chest infection in Saudi Arabia. Early diagnosis and identification of associated diseases is needed to prevent progression of the disease.

Predictors of mortality in hospitalized patients with acute exacerbation of bronchiectasis

BACKGROUND

In-hospital and long term outcomes of patients admitted to the hospital for acute exacerbation of bronchiectasis (AEB) has been evaluated in only a limited fashion. The resulting debilitation after an AEB can increase mortality. This study aims to evaluate the factors associated with mortality in patients admitted with an acute exacerbation of bronchiectasis (AEB).

METHODS

All charts of the patients admitted between 2003 and 2006 with an AEB were reviewed through an electronic database. Demographics, sputum cultures, pulmonary functions tests and other factors associated with long-term mortality were examined. The social security death index was used to determine long term mortality (http://ssdi.genealogy.rootsweb.com).

RESULTS

Forty-three patients (13 men and 30 women) with a mean age of 71.8+/-11.8 were studied. The hospital mortality was 9% and one-year mortality was 30% with a median survival of 46.6 months. Variables associated with mortality were male gender (female vs. male (HR), 0.36; (CI), 0.14-0.98; p=0.045), use of systemic steroids (with vs. without steroids HR, 3.12; CI 1.08-9.02; p=0.036), decreased FEV(1.0)% predicted (HR, 0.96; CI 0.92-0.999; p=0.042), elevated creatinine (HR, 2.36; CI 1.093-5.10; p=0.029), history of smoking (HR, 0.283; CI 0.097-0.825; p=0.021), and mechanical ventilation (HR, 66.011; CI 6.64-656.76; p=0.0004).

CONCLUSIONS

Male gender, elevated creatinine, decreased FEV(1.0)% predicted, mechanical ventilation, history of smoking, and acute use of systemic steroids during the hospitalization were associated with an increased risk of mortality.

Noninvasive and invasive ventilation in acute respiratory failure associated with bronchiectasis

PURPOSE

To describe the outcomes of patients with bronchiectasis and acute respiratory failure (ARF) treated with noninvasive ventilation (NIV) and invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) after a failure of conservative measures, and to identify the predictors of hospital mortality and NIV failure.

METHODS

Retrospective review of bronchiectatic patients on NIV (n = 31) or IMV (n = 26) for ARF over 8 years in a medical intensive care unit (ICU) experienced in NIV.

RESULTS

At baseline, the NIV group had more patients with acute exacerbations without identified precipitating factors (87.1 vs. 34.6%, p < 0.001), higher pH (mean 7.25 vs. 7.18, p = 0.008) and PaO(2)/FiO(2) ratio (mean 249.4 vs. 173.2, p = 0.02), and a trend towards a lower APACHE II score (mean 25.3 vs. 28.4, p = 0.07) than the IMV group. There was no difference in hospital mortality between the two groups (25.8 vs. 26.9%, p > 0.05). The NIV failure rate (need for intubation or death in the ICU) was 32.3%. Using logistic regression, the APACHE II score was the only predictor of hospital mortality (OR 1.19 per point), and the PaO(2)/FiO(2) ratio was the only predictor of NIV failure (OR 1.02 per mmHg decrease).

CONCLUSIONS

The hospital mortality of patients with bronchiectasis and ARF approximates 25% and is predicted by the APACHE II score. When selectively applied, NIV fails in one-third of the patients, and this is predicted by hypoxemia. Our findings call for randomised controlled trials to compare NIV versus IMV in such patients.

Exhaled breath condensate MMP-9 levels in children with bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis (BE) is still an important cause of chronic supurative respiratory diseases in developing countries. Neutrophil-derived proteases such as neutrophil elastase and matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) are implicated in causing airway damage in chronic pulmonary disease. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the MMP-9 and its natural tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMP-1) levels utilizing the exhaled breath condensate (EBC) method and their relationship with radiological findings and pulmonary functions in children with BE.Thirty-eight children with BE and 12 healthy children were included: Group 1 (cystic fibrosis [CF] BE), Group 2 (non-CF BE), Group 3 (control group). High-resolution computerized tomography (HRCT) scores were calculated according to the anatomic extent of BE. Pulmonary function tests were performed, and MMP-9 and TIMP-1 levels in EBC were analyzed by ELISA.Exhaled breath condensate MMP-9 level was 48.9 +/- 26.8 ng/ml for Group 1, and for Group 2, 42.8 +/- 18.1 ng/ml; and for Group 3, 30 +/- 3.7 ng/ml. Although no statistically significant difference was found between the Groups 1 and 2, a significant difference was detected between these groups and controls. No statistically significant difference was found in TIMP-1 levels regarding all groups. EBC MMP-9 levels were inversely correlated with pulmonary functions test, and positively with HRCT scores and annual number of pulmonary infections.In conclusion, this study showed that EBC of children with both CF BE and non-CF BE contained higher levels of MMP-9 in comparison to controls. We suggest that EBC MMP-9 level may be a useful marker of airway injury in patients with BE however prospective studies are needed.

Association between mucoid Pseudomonas infection and bronchiectasis in children with cystic fibrosis

PURPOSE

To correlate the severity of bronchiectasis in children with cystic fibrosis with clinical and microbiologic variables in order to clarify risk factors for the development of irreversible lung disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

After institutional review board approval and parental informed consents were obtained, a HIPAA-compliant longitudinal epidemiologic evaluation was performed in patients with cystic fibrosis who were enrolled in the Wisconsin trial of newborn screening from 1985 to 2009. Thin-section chest computed tomography (CT) was used in a prospective cross-sectional design to study patients ranging in age from 6.6 to 17.6 years (mean, 11.5 years). Thin-section CT scores were determined objectively on coded images by multiple raters in a standardized fashion. Microbiologic data were obtained by means of culture of respiratory secretions by using methods for differentiation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) as either nonmucoid or mucoid.

RESULTS

Eighty-three percent of patients (68 of 82) showed bronchiectasis of varying severity. Of 12 potential risk factors, only respiratory infection with mucoid PA correlated significantly with bronchiectasis (P = .041).

CONCLUSION

The severity of bronchiectasis in children with cystic fibrosis is significantly related to respiratory infection with mucoid PA; attempts to prevent bronchiectasis should include reducing exposure to and early eradication of PA.