Bronchiectasis & NTM

Bronchiectasis & NTM Lung Infection

Illustration of diseased lungs

Bronchiectasis is a long-term condition in which the airways become permanently widened and scarred, so mucus builds up and infections keep coming back. It can follow severe infections, or be linked to immune problems, autoimmune disease, aspiration or other conditions.

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM), such as Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC), are germs found in soil and water that can cause slow, chronic lung infections, especially in people with bronchiectasis. They are not spread from person to person.

Symptoms include:

  • Daily cough with mucus
  • Frequent chest infections
  • Shortness of breath and fatigue
  • Weight loss or night sweats (with NTM)
  • Coughing up blood (call 911 if heavy)
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Diagnosis & Treatment

How we diagnose

  • CT scan of the chest
  • Sputum cultures, including special cultures for NTM
  • Breathing tests and blood work to look for underlying causes

Treatment options

  • Airway clearance: breathing techniques, oscillating devices and inhaled saline to help clear mucus
  • Antibiotics for flare-ups, and long-term treatment for selected patients
  • Multi-drug antibiotic treatment for NTM when needed, with close monitoring
  • Vaccines and treatment of underlying causes

See also: Chronic Cough · Bronchoscopy

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