A 45-year-old woman with chronic productive cough for 3 years undergoes HRCT showing dilated bronchi extending to the pleural surface with uniform caliber and lack of tapering. According to Reid classification, which pattern of bronchiectasis does this represent?
- A Varicose bronchiectasis
- B Cylindrical bronchiectasis ✓
- C Cystic bronchiectasis
- D Saccular bronchiectasis
Correct answer: B. Cylindrical bronchiectasis
Explanation
Reid classification describes three morphological patterns of bronchiectasis: cylindrical (uniformly dilated bronchi with parallel walls extending to pleura), varicose (irregular beaded constrictions along the airway), and cystic/saccular (progressive distal dilation forming balloon-like cystic spaces). The described uniform dilation with lack of tapering is classic cylindrical bronchiectasis, the mildest form.
Reference: Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
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