COPD and bronchiectasis – a real phenotype?

Bronchiectasis is an anatomical diagnosis, arising from a diverse range of mechanisms conceptualised as a 'vicious cycle' and ultimately resulting in permanently dilated airways. COPD is a physiological diagnosis – the end result of a susceptible individual being exposed to sufficient airborne environmental toxin. Confusion between COPD and bronchiectasis arises because of the potential for a similar clinical presentation. However, when extensive, bronchiectasis can result in fixed airflow obstruction that meets the physiological definition for COPD and conversely, some patients with COPD have airway wall change…