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Has Mild Bronchiectatic Changes In Both Lung Bases, Increased Vascular Marking But No Lung Lesion
Hi following a radiology examination my dad has recieved a report summarising that he has Mild Bronchiectatic changes seen in both lung bases. Both lung fields show increased vascular marking but no focal actvie lung lesion seen. Please can you tell me what this means?
My dad is not a smoker but ocasionally suffers shortness of breath.
My dad is not a smoker but ocasionally suffers shortness of breath.
Mon, 29 Apr 2013
Hello and welcome to HCM,
The presence of bronchietatic changes implies that the airways in the lower lung bases are permanently dilated. This permanent dilatation is due to infections and inflammation.
Since, there is no active lesion in the lung, it indicates that the infection has occured some time in the past and now the disease has become chronic.
Secondily, the prominent vascular markings can be due to infections or a vascular disease like pulmonary hypertension, congestion, etc.
The symptom of dyspnea should be reported to a pulmonologist.
A ECG can help further.
Thanks and take care.
Dr Shailja P Wahal
The presence of bronchietatic changes implies that the airways in the lower lung bases are permanently dilated. This permanent dilatation is due to infections and inflammation.
Since, there is no active lesion in the lung, it indicates that the infection has occured some time in the past and now the disease has become chronic.
Secondily, the prominent vascular markings can be due to infections or a vascular disease like pulmonary hypertension, congestion, etc.
The symptom of dyspnea should be reported to a pulmonologist.
A ECG can help further.
Thanks and take care.
Dr Shailja P Wahal
I find this answer helpful
Hi,
Mild bronchiectasis can occur due to some old infection but may also just be non-specific at his age (assuming he is above 60 years or so). This need not be a cause for worry, especially if he has no cough or fever. If he has these symptoms, it is probably a good idea to meet a chest physician.
Increase in vascular marking is again not very specific at his age. It may also occur if the Xray has been taken in an expiratory phase or exposure was inadequate (technical factors). Often such X rays are reported as 'increased bronchovascular markings', summarizing the two.
Overall, there seems to be nothing much to worry about on your X ray. However, if his shortness of breath is severe, persistent or interfering with daily functions, it would be advisable to take the opinion of a chest physician.
Sincerely,
Vamshi
Mild bronchiectasis can occur due to some old infection but may also just be non-specific at his age (assuming he is above 60 years or so). This need not be a cause for worry, especially if he has no cough or fever. If he has these symptoms, it is probably a good idea to meet a chest physician.
Increase in vascular marking is again not very specific at his age. It may also occur if the Xray has been taken in an expiratory phase or exposure was inadequate (technical factors). Often such X rays are reported as 'increased bronchovascular markings', summarizing the two.
Overall, there seems to be nothing much to worry about on your X ray. However, if his shortness of breath is severe, persistent or interfering with daily functions, it would be advisable to take the opinion of a chest physician.
Sincerely,
Vamshi
I find this answer helpful
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