Localised pulmonary resection for bronchiectasis in hypogammaglobulinaemic patients. Issue 5 (May 1994)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cohen, A J; Roifman, C; Brendan, J; Mullen, M; Reid, B; Weisbrod, G; Downey, G P
• Is Part Of: Thorax. Volume 49:Issue 5(1994)
• Page Start: 509
• Page End: 510
• Publication Date: 1994-05
• Subjects: Chest -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Thorax; Chest -- Diseases; Periodicals; Periodicals; 617.54
• DOI: 10.1136/thx.49.5.509
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0040-6376

Abstract

Abstract : BACKGROUND--Bronchiectasis and pulmonary infections are common in patients with hypogammaglobulinaemia. Despite intravenous gammaglobulin treatment and appropriate antibiotics, a subgroup of patients remains with persistent localised pulmonary infection in segments where bronchiectasis had developed before appropriate treatment. As such localised pulmonary suppuration (segmental or lobar) may serve as a focus for progression of bronchiectasis, surgical resection of the involved segments may be considered. The outcome of pulmonary resection in four such patients is reported. RESULTS--Surgery was well tolerated except for one postoperative empyema. Information on follow up is available from 3.5 to 5 years. All patients experienced considerable reduction of symptoms including cough, sputum production, antibiotic use, and hospital admissions. CONCLUSIONS--Surgical resection of localised bronchiectatic segments should be considered in patients with hypogammaglobulinaemia with persistent localised suppuration and symptoms refractory to medical treatment.