Bronchiectasis. Computer enhanced bronchogram X ray of the human lungs showing bronchiectasis. Bronchiectasis is a lung disorder in which the bronchi and bronchioles (airways of the lungs) are distorted and damaged. Here, the lung at right has a normal bronchial tree of airways (pink branching structures); the affected lung at left shows an almost complete lack of structure. Ribs appear dark blue at upper frame. Bronchiectasis is less common in developed countries, usually caused by childhood chest infections such as measles, TB, pneumonia and whooping cough. This damages the lung tissue which is then more susceptible to infections later on in life.