Which feature is associated with the biopsy findings of patients with cystic fibrosis?

In patients with cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis is a prominent feature observed in biopsy findings. Cystic fibrosis is characterized by mutations in the CFTR gene, which leads to the production of thick, viscous mucus in the respiratory tract. This thick mucus obstructs airways and creates an environment conducive to chronic bacterial infections and inflammation.

As a consequence of this ongoing inflammation and infection, the airways can become damaged, leading to bronchiectasis, which is defined by the permanent dilation of bronchi due to destruction of the bronchial walls. Histologically, this is represented by changes in the bronchial epithelium, including hyperplasia and eventual damage to the structure of the airway walls.

While generalized fibrosis of lung tissue and hyperplasia of the epithelium may occur in cystic fibrosis as secondary changes due to chronic inflammation, the hallmark pathological feature that stands out in cystic fibrosis patients is indeed bronchiectasis. Similarly, clear fluid in alveolar spaces is not a typical finding associated with cystic fibrosis biopsies, as the condition primarily affects the larger airways with thick mucus production rather than presenting with significant alveolar edema. Thus, bronchiectasis is the most relevant and characteristic histopathological finding in patients with cyst