How bronchoscopy can impact bronchiectasis management: a prospective, observational study

<title>Extract</title> Bronchiectasis is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by irreversible bronchial dilatation, persistent respiratory symptoms, and recurrent exacerbations [1]. Despite significant progress in understanding its pathophysiology, many diagnostic and therapeutic decisions remain based on expert opinion [2, 3]. In particular, the role of bronchoscopy remains debated. According to current guidelines, bronchoscopy should be considered in patients with non-productive cough and CT signs of infection, or when obstructive causes or non-tuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease (NTM-PD) are suspected [2, 3]. However, these recommendations are not supported by robust studies or real-world data, and bronchoscopy can be associated with complications, including bleeding, desaturation, and, rarely, severe adverse events [4]. This study aimed to assess the impact of bronchoscopy on the clinical management of adults with bronchiectasis.