South African Thoracic Society position statement on the management of non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis in adults: 2023

Abstract

Background. Bronchiectasis is a chronic lung disorder that affects the lives of many South Africans. Post-tuberculosis (TB) bronchiectasis is an important complication of previous pulmonary TB and a common cause of bronchiectasis in South Africa (SA). No previous statements on the management of bronchiectasis in SA have been published. Objectives. To provide a position statement that will act as a template for the management of adult patients with bronchiectasis in SA. Methods. The South African Thoracic Society appointed an editorial committee to compile a position statement on the management of adult non-cystic fibrosis (CF) bronchiectasis in SA. Results. A position statement addressing the management of non-CF bronchiectasis in adults in SA was compiled. This position statement covers the epidemiology, aetiology, diagnosis, investigations and various aspects of management of adult patients with non-CF bronchiectasis in SA. Conclusion. Bronchiectasis has largely been a neglected lung condition, but new research has improved the outlook for patients. Collaboration between interprofessional team members in patient management is important. In SA, more research into the epidemiology of bronchiectasis, especially post-TB bronchiectasis and HIV-associated bronchiectasis, is required.