Acute exacerbation of bronchiectasis

Q: Acute exacerbation of bronchiectasis is usually accompanied by all of the following except?

A) increased, darker and viscous sputum 
B) shortness of breath
C) pleuritic chest pain
D) possible hemoptysis. 
E) high grade fever and chills 


Answer: E

Acute exacerbation of bronchiectasis is accompanied by a high burden of bacterial pathogens associated with high inflammation. This results in production of sputum, which is more viscous and darker in color. Interestingly high grade fever and chills are generally absent. Patient may have lassitude, shortness of breath, pleuritic chest pain, or possible hemoptysis.

#pulmonary


Reference:

1. Hill AT, Haworth CS, Aliberti S, et al. Pulmonary exacerbation in adults with bronchiectasis: a consensus definition for clinical research. Eur Respir J 2017; 49.