May 22 @ 1:30 pm – 1:50 pm EDT
Supported By: Insmed Incorporated
Presenter: Patrick Flume, MD
Virginia
Although bronchiectasis was first described more than 200 years ago, the understanding of the disease’s pathophysiology has been limited. Though historically viewed as a cycle, recent scientific literature has described this disease’s process as a vortex of interconnected drivers that include impaired mucociliary clearance, chronic airway infection, chronic airway inflammation, and lung destruction. The role of inflammation in driving this condition continues to be a subject of research, but limited options exist to address it in clinical practice. However, increasing evidence implicates a key role for inflammation, primarily driven by neutrophils, in perpetuating and sustaining the vicious vortex of chronic airway infection, recurrent exacerbations, and lung tissue destruction that characterizes this debilitating disease. Although traditionally regarded as short-lived immune cells, neutrophils are now appreciated as key mediators of chronic airway inflammation capable of surviving longer than previously believed and orchestrating complex immune responses that extend far beyond the elimination of microorganisms. During this session, participants will journey into the biology and functions of the neutrophil, understanding how the mechanisms intended to defend against infection can become destructive in patients with bronchiectasis. Expert faculty will review data linking the inflammatory process to bronchiectasis disease progression, risk of future exacerbations, and worse clinical outcomes. Finally, participants will learn how this evidence applies to clinical practice and informs how addressing inflammation can be incorporated into a holistic management approach aimed at disrupting the vicious vortex of bronchiectasis.
To learn more about bronchiectasis, join Insmed in the Exhibit Hall at Booth #609. We are offering a variety of resources and events this year, including an immersive exhibit featuring bronchiectasis research, a 3D lung model, interactive explorations of the science, and more. Hear from experts like Ashwin Basavaraj, MD, as he discusses our evolving understanding of bronchiectasis as a “vicious vortex” of pathophysiologic factors and how this model supports the need for a multimodal treatment strategy.
For a full listing of events, pick up a schedule at our booth or refer to the ATS 2023 International Conference program.