Which of the following is NOT a typical feature of cystic fibrosis in lung biopsies?

Cystic fibrosis is characterized by a range of pathological changes in the lungs due to the accumulation of thick, sticky mucus that obstructs airways and leads to chronic inflammation and infection. In lung biopsies of patients with cystic fibrosis, one typically observes features such as mucus obstruction, which can significantly block bronchi and bronchioles. This mucus buildup can also cause structural changes in the lungs.

Destruction of alveolar walls is also a common finding due to the chronic inflammation and infection that stem from the persistent mucus obstruction. Over time, this can lead to bronchiectasis and changes in lung architecture resulting from ongoing damage.

Bronchial dilation occurs as a result of prolonged inflammation and airway obstruction. The obstructed airways become enlarged due to the accumulation of mucus and recurrent infections, contributing to bronchiectasis, which is a hallmark of cystic fibrosis.

In contrast, normal airway histology would not be expected in cystic fibrosis patients. Rather than exhibiting healthy, unobstructed airways, biopsies typically show significant pathological findings that reflect the disease process. Therefore, identifying normal airway histology as a feature in lung biopsies is inconsistent with the typical manifestations of cystic fibrosis. The presence of normal histology would indicate a lack of