Bronchiectasis update

Abstract

Purpose of review 

Bronchiectasis, once thought to be an orphan disease, is being diagnosed with increased frequency in the United States and around the world. The present review aims to provide an update on recent publications on the diagnosis and management of bronchiectasis.

Recent findings 

Two large bronchiectasis patient registries have published initial reports regarding demographics and other patient data in 2017. Updates on the microbiology, microbiome, and inflammation in patients with bronchiectasis are clarifying the complexities of airway infection in this disease. A consensus definition of ‘exacerbation’ in bronchiectasis has been agreed upon this year. Reports on novel treatments, including the repurposing of older therapies, have also been published in 2016–2017. A new European guideline for the management of adult bronchiectasis is also now available.

Summary 

Bronchiectasis, a resurgent disease, is now being better defined with a rapidly expanding portfolio of demographic, clinical, and therapeutic research and publications.