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Bronchiectasis — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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ModerateRespiratoryBronchiectasisRACP Paediatrics

A 3-year-old Aboriginal girl from a remote community in the Northern Territory presents with chronic wet cough for 8 weeks. She has had 3 previous episodes of pneumonia. A chest X-ray shows left lower lobe consolidation. After a course of amoxicillin, the cough persists. What is the most likely underlying diagnosis?

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Correct answer: C — Bronchiectasis

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, particularly in remote communities, have a high prevalence of bronchiectasis. Recurrent pneumonia with persistent wet cough and failure to respond to standard antibiotics raises strong suspicion for bronchiectasis. HRCT is the diagnostic investigation of choice. Protracted bacterial bronchitis typically responds to a 2–4 week course of appropriate antibiotics.

Reference: NHMRC – 2024 – Management of Bronchiectasis in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children and Adults