Do we search for bronchiectasis and their aetiology in primary care?

Background: Bronchiectasis (BC) non due to cystic fibrosis are chronical and abnormal bronchial dilatations caused by many different diseases, which leads to mucus accumulation with repeated episodes of inflammation and infection of lower airways. In Catalonia, the prevalence of BC is 36,2 cases per 10.000 inhabitants with higher rates in women and an increase with age in both sexes. The main cause is idiopathic. Of the known causes, the most frequent is the infectious, followed by chronic respiratory diseases (such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, bronchopulmonary aspergillosis), primary immunodeficiencies and also secondary immunodeficiencies (neoplasm, HIV) and autoimmune diseases (like rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren syndrome, Lupus,…). Detecting BC is important for two reasons. First, patients could experience exacerbations with the consequent pulmonary deterioration. Secondly, we have to be aware of BC colonisation since the leading cause could be a potential pathogenic microorganism. The most common bacteria is Haemophilus influenzae followed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA), Moraxella catarrhalis and Streptococcus pneumoniae. The presence of Pseudomonas in the sputum is associated with more pulmonary affection and the consequent worsening of respiratory function. For this reason it is important to eradicate PA as soon as possible. Methodology: It will be a cross-sectional multicentre study that will take place in 4 primary care centres of Barcelona. We will include patients that are above 40 years old with the confirmation of the diagnosis with high resolution CT. Questions to discuss: Which is the prevalence of BC in primary care? Do we look for the aetiology of BC? Which is the prevalence of BC exacerbations? In our daily medical practice, do we request sputum cultures? How many people are colonised by PA?