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Bronchiectasis (brong-key-ECK-tuh-sis) is a chronic lung condition in which there is an abnormal expansion (dilation) of the bronchial tubes. The problem may involve one or more segments of one or both lungs. It may be the result of infection (such as chronic bronchitis, whooping cough or pneumonia), be congenital (present at birth) or related to an uncommon problem called cystic fibrosis. One form of the disease is caused by infection of the lung with the fungal organism Aspergillis fumigatis (allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis).

As you noted, it commonly leads to chronic or recurrent lung infections, including pneumonia, with the production of large amounts of discolored sputum that may contain streaks of blood. The diagnosis usually can be confirmed by chest X-rays, particularly CT scans of the lungs. Bronchograms — X-rays taken after injection of a material that appears opaque into the bronchial tubes — may be used to establish the extent of the problem, especially if surgery is being considered.

Treatment is based on the severity of the problem. In some people, avoidance of bronchial irritants such as smoke and dust and the use of bronchodilator medications may be of benefit. In addition, antibiotics may shorten the episodic flares of infection. Use of a procedure called postural drainage of the lung may help remove excessive lung secretions. If bronchiectasis is localized to a limited area of the lung, surgical removal (resection) of the involved tissue may be of benefit when more conservative treatment doesn’t provide sufficient relief.