The Role of Viral Infection in Acute Exacerbations of Non-cystic Fibrosis Bronchiectasis in Adults

Bronchiectasis is clinically characterized by irreversible dilation of the bronchi and bronchioles leading to persistent cough, purulent sputum, and airway flow limitation, which may be accompanied by recurrent exacerbations.It has been increasingly recognized that respiratory viruses are mainly responsible for acute exacerbation of chronic pulmonary diseases, i.e. asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and cystic fibrosis. However,little is known about the roles of viral infection in driving exacerbations of bronchiectasis.This study aims to identify the frequency of common viral infections and determine the roles that viruses play in acute exacerbations of bronchiectasis.