BRONCHIECTASIS AND ECHINOCOCCI OF LUNGS: A CLINICAL AND PATHOPHYSIOLOGICAL CONNECTION

Bronchiectasis and pulmonary echinococcosis are two distinct lung disorders that often intersect in clinical settings through chronic inflammation, persistent infection, and structural lung damage. Bronchiectasis is known for its irreversible dilation of the bronchi, which traps mucus and fosters recurrent infections, while echinococcosis—caused by Echinococcus granulosus or Echinococcus multilocularis—creates cystic lesions within lung tissue that may rupture or compress airways. Despite their different origins, both conditions share common biological pathways involving immune dysfunction, inflammatory mediator release, and tissue remodeling. This article explores these shared mechanisms by developing a conceptual model that links chronic inflammation, immune dysregulation, and structural remodeling in both diseases. Through qualitative analysis and clinical reasoning, the study presents an integrated framework to understand their interaction, improve differential diagnosis, and guide combined treatment approaches in endemic regions.