Microbiology and Treatment Outcome of Acute Exacerbation of Bronchiectasis in Hong Kong: a Prospective Study

Bronchiectasis is a common disease worldwide with a high burden on healthcare resources. In Hong Kong (HK), bronchiectasis ranked 5th highest as a cause of respiratory mortality, was the 6th highest reason for respiratory inpatient bed-days and was the 7th highest cause of respiratory hospitalization in Hong Kong in 2005.

Local microbiological and clinical data regarding acute exacerbation of bronchiectasis (AEB) is lacking, in particular the frequency of pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) in AEB is yet to be elucidated. Traditional respiratory specimen takes time and lack sensitivity, a newer multiplex molecular method may be beneficial in improving sensitivity and reducing turnover time to detect pathogens involved in AEB. A better understanding of the microbiology of AEB will provide evidence for judicious use of appropriate antibiotics in patients hospitalized for AEB to facilitate treatment and discharge.

This study aims to

1. elucidate the microbiology of AEB using both traditional culture and newer molecular multiplex methods,
2. identify factors associated with PA infection, and
3. describe the management and treatment outcome of AEB in HK