Association between participation in the German Bronchiectasis Registry (PROGNOSIS) and improvement in the course of disease

<bold>Background:</bold> Bronchiectasis research has advanced significantly through international and national registries, such as the European bronchiectasis registry (EMBARC) revealing crucial insights into the disease's heterogeneous nature. <bold>Methods:</bold> The prospective, non-interventional PROGNOSIS registry has collected data from over 1,500 CT-confirmed adult bronchiectasis patients across 38 German sites, excluding those with cystic fibrosis or lung transplants. Aligned with the EMBARC registry, it ensures comprehensive clinical data collection. Statistical analyses of baseline and follow-up data aim to assess disease progression and patient outcomes. <bold>Results:</bold> Key outcomes include a reduction in the median exacerbation and hospitalization rate, demonstrating an improvement in managing the disease during patients’ participation in the registry. Lung function remained stable over time, contradicting the expected decline in such chronic lung conditions. There was a significant decrease in active smokers, and improvements were seen in sputum quantity and quality. There was an increase in the detection of pathogens, particularly Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Notable shifts in the underlying causes of bronchiectasis were observed over the registry period, including a decrease in idiopathic cases and an increase in cases with a proven etiology. <bold>Conclusion:</bold> The PROGNOSIS registry highlights the critical role of comprehensive management in bronchiectasis, emphasizing a thorough diagnostic and clinical workup to improve relevant disease aspects.