Pharmacotherapy for bronchiectasis.
Bronchiectasis is a chronic lung disease and clinically is characterised by chronic cough, sputum production and susceptibility to lower respiratory tract infections. Management of bronchiectasis involves investigation to identify treatable causes and then focusing on prevention of exacerbations by regular physiotherapy and the appropriate use of antibiotics for infective exacerbations. There are few good quality, randomised, controlled trials in bronchiectasis and much of the treatment is based on expert opinion and extrapolation from the management of other respiratory conditions. This article discusses the management of bronchiectasis with particular reference to the pathophysiological processes involved in the condition. It then looks at the available evidence supporting such a management plan.
Royal Brompton Hospital, Host Defence Unit, Fulham Road, London, SW3 6NP, UK.
Michael R
MR
Loebinger
Robert
R
Wilson
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001424:Bacterial Infections / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000276:immunology / Q000382:microbiology; D001987:Bronchiectasis / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000276:immunology / Q000382:microbiology; D001993:Bronchodilator Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D001993:Bronchodilator Agents