![]() in 1982. Multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) is preferred over high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) as it can obtain thin sections of 1 mm (high resolution). The CT chest signs of bronchiectasis were first described by NAIDICH et al. In addition to making the diagnosis, the pattern of disease on HRCT may enable one to limit the differential to a single/few specific causative entities. ![]() In comparison to chest x-ray, CT is both more sensitive and provides more specific information. Signs of complications/exacerbations, such as patchy densities due to mucoid impaction (mucus may become of high density due to chronic inspissation) and consolidation, volume loss secondary to mucoid bronchial obstruction or chronic cicatrization are also seen. Signs on chest x-ray include the identification of parallel linear densities, tram-track opacities, or ring shadows reflecting thickened and abnormally dilated bronchial walls. Testing for cystic fibrosis (CF) (sweat test and/or screening for common CF mutations) is recommended for patients aged younger than 40 years or with recurrent Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus isolation, or upper lobe predominant disease irrespective of age.Īlpha-1 Antitrypsin level, Ciliary function analysis, and Serology for HIV if indicated.Ĭhest radiography is usually the initial study performed in suspected bronchiectasis. Sputum culture to exclude nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) and assessment of autoantibodies are also suggested. The recommendations of the British Thoracic Society (BTS) suggest checking for underlying factors involving immunoglobulin tests (IgA, IgM, IgG, and IgE), and testing to exclude ABPA (specific IgE to Aspergillus, IgG to Aspergillus, and eosinophil count).
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