Bronchiectasis is a chronic progressive disease of the lower respiratory tract characterized by permanent, abnormal bronchial dilatation. It presents a large socioeconomic burden because it increases the cost of healthcare and has a negative impact on quality of life. Epidemiological data about bronchiectasis is unclear, but an increase in prevalence and rate of hospitalization has been observed. Nowadays there is more knowledge about the pathogenesis and etiology of bronchiectasis. The mechanism of occurrence is complex and is explained using the vicious cycle hypothesis which is based on the mutual support of inflammation, structural damage, impaired mucociliary clearance and chronic infection. The most common pathogens that contribute to the infection are H. influenzae and P. aeruginosa. Chronic P. aeruginosa infection is a risk factor for a worse clinical outcome. The etiology of bronchiectasis is heterogeneous. Many potential causes have been identified, even though there is still a large percentage of bronchiectasis with an unknown cause. The underlying causes can be postinfectious, immunodeficient states, allergic and inflammatory diseases, etc. The most common clinical presentation of the disease includes chronic cough with copious expectoration and recurrent respiratory infections. Recently published guidelines clearly define the diagnostic workup. The diagnosis is set clinically and confirmed radiologically using HRCT. Thanks to discoveries in treatment of bronchiectasis in CF and studies about bronchiectasis without CF, for the first time clear and systematized treatment guidelines have been published. The goal of treatment is to break the pathogenic vicious circle and to prevent exacerbations. Also, treatment of the underlying cause is important. Bronchiectasis severity and prognosis is estimated using the BSI, FACED and BACI systems.