Complications
Massive, life-threatening haemoptysis (>250 mL/day) may occur.
Protection of the airway is achieved by reclining the patient on the side the bleeding is suspected. If needed, endotracheal intubation is recommended.
Breathing and circulation are monitored and supported as needed. Immediate referral to a thoracic surgeon and/or interventional radiologist is essential for bronchoscopy-guided haemostatic tamponade, bronchial artery embolisation, or surgical resection of the involved area.[127][128][129] Haemoptysis is thought to originate from the bronchial arteries or bronchial-pulmonary anastomoses.
Haemoptysis is a very rare complication in children and adolescents.
A primary goal is to prevent or treat tissue hypoxia.
Treatment includes airway protection, supplemental oxygen, potentially mechanical ventilation, and treatment of the underlying cause.
Respiratory failure is a very rare complication in children and adolescents.
Early and effective treatment helps to prevent cor pulmonale. If there is evidence of pulmonary hypertension, immediate referral to a pulmonologist and/or thoracic surgeon is optimal.
In the most severe disease, heart and lung transplantation may be necessary.
Cor pulmonale is a very rare complication in children and adolescents.
One population-based cohort study found that bronchiectasis is an independent risk factor for ischaemic stroke, with an adjusted hazard ratio of 1.74 (95% CI 1.28 to 2.35) compared with people without bronchiectasis.[130]
Ischaemic stroke is a very rare complication in children and adolescents.
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