Saunders Respiratory Practice

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What is a common cause of bronchospasm after a bronchoscopy?

Infection
Environmental allergens
Idiosyncratic drug reactions
Mechanical irritation

The correct answer is: Mechanical irritation

Bronchospasm after a bronchoscopy is commonly attributed to mechanical irritation. During the procedure, instruments are inserted into the airways, which can cause direct trauma or irritation to the bronchial tissues. This mechanical stimulation can provoke a reflexive constriction of the bronchial smooth muscle, leading to bronchospasm. While infection can indeed arise post-procedure, it is not an immediate cause of bronchospasm. Environmental allergens and idiosyncratic drug reactions are factors that could contribute to bronchospastic events but are not directly related to the immediate airway irritation caused by the bronchoscopy itself. Understanding the role of mechanical irritation helps healthcare professionals anticipate and manage potential complications following bronchoscopic procedures effectively.