Bronchiectasis in urban black children
Lee, D.J.; Conlan, A.A.
South African Medical Journal 67(20): 817-819
1985
ISSN/ISBN: 0256-9574 PMID: 3992415 Document Number: 266098
From July 1979-July 1982, 29 cases of childhood bronchiectasis were encountered at Leratong Hospital [South Africa]. They were retrospectively divided into 2 groups: 16 patients underwent surgical intervention and the other 13 patients received medical treatment only. Symptoms and signs were reviewed and findings on bronchography were studied. The left lower lobe was the most common site of involvement, and the lingular segment was invariably also affected by bronchiectatic changes. Of the surgical patients 10 (63%) underwent pneumonectomy. In 75% of the surgical group there was an excellent or good result after surgery, while a good result was achieved in 40% of those receiving medical treatment only. Other large series were reviewed to compare surgical and medical management. Factors that may influence the outcome of surgical treatment are discussed.