An abnormal condition of the bronchial tree, characterised by irreversible dilatation and destruction of bronchial wall is called _____.

Appeared in: AIIMS Raipur NO- 2019 (shift 3rd)

Explanation

Bronchiectasis is defined as the abnormal and irreversible dilatation of the bronchi and bronchioles.
This condition results from the destruction of the muscular and elastic tissue within the bronchial walls, typically due to chronic inflammation and infection.
The key features distinguishing it are the 'irreversible' and 'destructive' nature of the changes to the airway, which directly match the question's description.

Option A: Bronchopneumonia is an acute infection and inflammation of the bronchioles and surrounding alveoli. It does not involve irreversible dilatation and destruction of the bronchial wall as its primary characteristic.
Option C: Bronchitis is the inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes. While chronic bronchitis involves long-term inflammation, it is defined by a persistent productive cough and not primarily by the irreversible structural destruction and dilatation seen in bronchiectasis.
Option D: Bronchial asthma is characterized by reversible airway obstruction and hyper-responsiveness. The airway narrowing is temporary and can be relieved, which is the opposite of the 'irreversible' condition described in the question.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain The question tests the knowledge of the specific pathological definition of Bronchiectasis, differentiating it from other common respiratory conditions as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses play a crucial role in managing patients with bronchiectasis by focusing on airway clearance techniques (e.g., postural drainage, chest physiotherapy), administering antibiotics for exacerbations, and educating patients on recognizing signs of infection.
Monitoring sputum characteristics (color, volume, odor) is a key nursing assessment to detect an impending or active infection.
What if? If the question had stated 'reversible' dilatation and inflammation of the airways, the correct answer would have been Bronchial Asthma, as reversibility is the hallmark of asthma, whereas permanence is the key to bronchiectasis.

How to Approach the Question

First, carefully read the question stem and identify the key defining phrases: 'irreversible dilatation' and 'destruction of bronchial wall'.
Next, evaluate each option based on these key phrases.
Recall the definition of Bronchopneumonia (acute infection), Bronchitis (inflammation), and Bronchial Asthma (reversible obstruction).
Recognize that these conditions do not fit the description of permanent, destructive dilatation.
Match the keywords 'irreversible dilatation' and 'destruction' to the classic definition of Bronchiectasis.
This direct match makes Bronchiectasis the only correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: The question tests the knowledge of the specific pathological definition of Bronchiectasis, differentiating it from other common respiratory conditions.
Stem keywords: bronchial tree, irreversible dilatation, destruction of bronchial wall
Lead-in keywords: is called
Negative lead-in flag: false

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E6 Pathology-Textbook of PATHOLOGYHarsh Mohan Part 2 (215-514) pp. 56-58, 58-60

E6 Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics(2024) — Volume 2 p. 446-448

Practise the full AIIMS Raipur NO- 2019 (shift 3rd)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.