Management of Adult Bronchiectasis - Consensus-based Guidelines of the German Respiratory Society - PubMed

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Bronchiectasis is a chronic respiratory disease with irreversible bronchi dilation.
The disease is heterogeneous in origin and linked to high symptom burden and reduced quality of life.
Global prevalence of bronchiectasis is rising, increasing healthcare costs.
First German-language guidelines for adult bronchiectasis management.
Diagnosis relies on thoracic imaging, especially computed tomography.
Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for treatment decisions.
Treatment includes both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches.
Non-drug interventions: smoking cessation, physiotherapy, rehabilitation, surgery, and lung transplant.
Pharmacological treatments: mucolytics, bronchodilators, anti-inflammatories, and long-term antibiotics.
Guidelines cover upper airway involvement, comorbidities, and acute exacerbations.
Addresses socio-medical issues, disability rights, and patient education.
Special considerations: pediatric-to-adult transition, family planning, pregnancy, and palliative care.
Aims for patient-centered, individualized care.

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