1. Bronchiectasis: Mucus Stasis

• Pathophysiology & Presentation: Inflammation destroys elastic and muscular wall structures, causing permanent dilation and impaired mucus clearance. It presents as a persistent cough with thick, purulent sputum. Massive hemoptysis is a life-threatening complication.
• Care: CT scan is the gold standard. Care involves antibiotics (minimum 14 days), bronchodilators, and ACTs with hydration (2-3 L/day).

2. Cystic Fibrosis (CF): Ion Transport Defect

• Pathophysiology & Presentation: An autosomal recessive CFTR mutation disrupts sodium and chloride transport, producing thick, dehydrated mucus that plugs respiratory, GI, and  ...