British Thoracic Society guideline for non-CF bronchiectasis

The diagnosis, investigation and particularly management of bronchiectasis has been largely empirical and the subject of relatively few controlled clinical trials. There are no clear guidelines, although an Australian position statement has been published concerning bronchiectasis in children. The purposes of these guidelines were therefore threefold: (1) to identify relevant studies in noncystic fibrosis (CF) bronchiectasis; (2) to provide guidelines on management based on published studies where possible or a consensus view; and (3) to identify gaps in our knowledge and identify areas for future study. SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS Section 2: Background and causes Congenital defects of large airways < Congenital defects should be considered in all patients with bronchiectasis. [D] Foreign bodies and aspiration < Gastric aspiration should be considered as a cause in all patients. [D] What is the current relevance of previous severe lower respiratory tract infections to patients with