Impact of bronchial wall thickness on airflow obstruction in bronchiectasis.

Abstract The association between airflow obstruction and bronchial dilation has been researched in bronchiectasis. However, the impact of bronchial wall thickening on airflow obstruction has not been thoroughly investigated. This study assessed the underlying mechanism of airflow obstruction in bronchiectasis due to abnormal bronchial wall thickening using oscillometry. A total of 98 patients with bronchiectasis were retrospectively reviewed. At the time of diagnosis, spirometric and oscillometric parameters, high-resolution computed tomography scores, and clinical characteristics were collected. The bronchial diameter, bronchial wall thickness, and extent of emphysema were evaluated semi-quantitatively. Correlations between patient data and characteristics were analyzed. Thirty-three patients with airflow obstruction showed higher respiratory resistance, more negative respiratory reactance (Xrs) at 5 Hz (X5), and higher bronchial wall thickness score than those without airflow obstruction. The bronchial wall thickness score negatively affected forced expiration volume in 1 s /forced vital capacity and X5. Abnormal bronchial wall thickening might make Xrs more negative and progress airflow obstruction in bronchiectasis.