Bronchiectasis associated with human immunodeficiency virus infection

The precise incidence of bronchiectasis (BCH) in individuals infected by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is unknown. Because such knowledge can imply different diagnostic procedures, prognosis and treatment, we report a relevant case in which clinical and radiological signs led to suspicion of BCH which was confirmed by high resolution computerized axial tomography. As life expectancy improves for HIV-infected patients, the incidence of BCH may rise. We therefore believe it is important to include BCH in the spectrum of likely pulmonary radiological signs in the HIV-infected population, though further studies must be done to assess the epidemiology, etiology, pathogenesis and prognosis of BCH.