Congenital Bronchiectasis

Congenital bronchiectasis is an abnormality present from birth in which some bronchi are abnormally dilated. This dilation makes it hard for the airways to clear their secretions normally, which allows them to build up and leads to repeated infections.

How it may present: Persistent cough, frequent and abundant production of secretions, and respiratory infections that come back again and again, especially during childhood. Over time, difficulty breathing may also be noticed.

Why it occurs: Unlike acquired forms, which develop after infections or other damage, its origin lies in the development of the airways before birth.

Who treats it? The pediatric pulmonologist and the pediatrician evaluate the child's respiratory situation, and the pediatric surgeon intervenes in selected cases. If a child has recurrent respiratory infections or a chronic cough, evaluating it with these specialists helps guide the appropriate follow-up.