Bronchiectasis Program

Overview

Bronchiectasis is a long-term condition of the lungs that can cause breathing difficulties and make the lungs more vulnerable to infection. The Pulmonology Clinic at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi is comprised of expert physicians supported by a team of specialized nurses, respiratory therapists, and dietitians, all of whom have special expertise in the treatment of bronchiectasis. The hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art imaging, laboratory and microbiology facilities, which are essential for the diagnosis and management of bronchiectasis.

What We Treat

Bronchiectasis is a chronic condition in which the airways of the lungs widen, causing a buildup of excess mucus that can make the lungs more vulnerable to infection. Bronchiectasis may also cause breathing difficulties.

Bronchiectasis can have a number of underlying causes, including:

• Measles
• Whooping cough
• Pneumonia
• Tuberculosis (TB)
• Allergic reactions
• Blockages caused by inhaling small items (i.e. nuts or other small pieces of food)
• Inherited diseases, such as cystic fibrosis
• Disorders of the immune system.

Identifying and treating the cause of a patient’s bronchiectasis can help improve their quality of life. The Bronchiectasis Program at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi uses state-of-the-art technology to run tests, diagnose, and determine the cause of this condition.

In some patients, however, no underlying cause can be found. This is known as idiopathic bronchiectasis. The Bronchiectasis Program at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi provides diagnosis and treatment for both idiopathic and secondary bronchiectasis using physiotherapy, medications, and, in severe cases, surgery.