What type of lung damage is characterized by mucus obstruction in cystic fibrosis?

In cystic fibrosis, the primary lung damage arises from chronic obstruction and inflammation due to thick, viscous mucus. This mucus obstructs the airways, which promotes bacterial infections and leads to significant structural changes in the lungs.

Bronchiectasis is specifically characterized by the abnormal and permanent dilation of the bronchi, which occurs as a result of repeated infections and inflammation initiated by mucus obstruction. Over time, the thickened mucus creates a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to a cycle of infection and inflammation that further damages the bronchial walls.

This dilation is often seen in cystic fibrosis patients due to the plugging of the smaller airways, which prevents normal airflow and leads to destructive changes in the bronchial architecture. The result is a combination of obstruction and chronic inflammation, manifesting as bronchiectasis, which is a hallmark of lung damage in cystic fibrosis.

The other options represent different forms of lung damage. Emphysema involves the destruction of alveolar walls and is primarily related to factors like smoking rather than mucus obstruction. Atelectasis refers to the collapse of lung tissue, which can occur for various reasons but is not primarily driven by obstructive mucus. Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can occur independently