Bronchiectasis is a structural derangement of the bronchial wall that is ch
aracterized by airway dilatation and bronchial wall thickening. As a result
of this abnormality, chronic inflammation and secondary microbial infectio
ns occur, which cause additional damage to the bronchi. Recent insights int
o the potential pathophysiological mechanisms of bronchiectasis, as well as
improvements in computed tomography and the development of new pharmacolog
ical agents, might help to improve the clinical management of this chronic
infective/inflammatory disorder. Curr Opin Infect Dis 14:193-197 (C) 2001 L
ippincott Williams & Wilkins.