Description
A lung disease involving the destruction and enlargement of the bronchial tubes. It is often caused by recurrent inflammation or infection of the airways. It most often begins in childhood as a complication from infection or inhaling a foreign object, but it can develop at any age.
Symptoms
Cough, blood tinged sputum, shortness of breath, wheezing, fatigue.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A chest X-ray and CT scan will be performed. Sputum analysis may be done to rule out bacterial, fungal or tuberculosis (TB) infection.
Tests:
X-ray
Other Specific Tests: Sputum culture
Specialists:
Pulmonology, Pediatric Pulmonology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A chest X-ray and CT scan will be performed. Sputum analysis may be done to rule out bacterial, fungal or tuberculosis (TB) infection.
Tests:
X-ray
Other Specific Tests: Sputum culture
Specialists:
Pulmonology, Pediatric Pulmonology
Treatment
Treatment includes: bronchodilators (albuterol, ipratropium), expectorants, and antibiotics. Sometimes surgical resection of the affected lung is required.