Bronchiectasis in Children

Clinical Description

It is long term condition where widening of the airways leads to build up of excess mucus which makes the lungs more vulnerable to infection

Signs and Symptoms

• Chronic productive cough
• Finger clubbing
• Dyspnea
• Wheezing
• Failure to thrive
• Hemoptysis
• Chest pain
• Recurrent respiratory infections

Investigations

• HIV test
• Chest Xray
• Sputum microscopy and culture
• CT chest if available
• Lung function tests

Treatment

• Treat respiratory infections aggressively
• Prevent respiratory infections
• Immunizations
• Chest physiotherapy
• Bronchodilator therapy
• Azithromycin 10mg/kg PO 3 times a week
• Nutritional support
• Treat underlying cause

Complications

• Corpulmonale
• Pneumothorax
• Recurrent infections
• Respiratory failure

Complications and Referral Criteria

• Suspected bronchiectasis to a tertiary facility for diagnostic work up.
• Refer all bronchiectasis patients for further investigations and specialist care if new case