Reversible bronchiectasis

Last revised by Henry Knipe on 8 Nov 2022

Reversible bronchiectasis is a term describing dilated bronchial tree in a patient with a collapsed (atelectatic) lobe. It is thought to be due to increased tension on the bronchial wall by the collapsed lung. The dilated bronchi usually return to their normal size when the lung expands. The phrase is dubbed an oxymoron since bronchiectasis, by definition, is irreversible 1. Other causes of reversible bronchiectasis are pneumonia and foreign body aspiration 2.

ADVERTISEMENT: Supporters see fewer/no ads

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.