Correlation of Inflammatory Markers and Radiological Findings in Stable Bronchiectasis Patients With Exacerbation Phenotype

Bronchiectasis, also referred to as non-cystic fibrosis (non-CF) bronchiectasis, is a chronic respiratory disease defined by abnormal and irreversible dilatation of the bronchi (1). Dilatation of the bronchial lumen predisposes to infection (2). Recurrent infection and airway inflammation leads to tissue damage and inflammation that leads to excess mucus production and delayed mucociliary clearance, predisposing the patient to recurrent and chronic infections (3). This in turn creates a cycle of further tissue damage and infection (4), leading to recurrent exacerbations, hospitalizations and loss of lung function. Non-CF bronchiectasis patients who experience frequent exacerbations (≥2 per year) represent a high-risk group with accelerated disease progression.Bronchiectasis has become a major health concern due to its increasing prevalence and associated healthcare costs (5). The disease