Asthma Flashcards
what is the definition of chronic asthma?
Episodic, reversible airway obstruction due to bronchial hyper-reactivity to a variety of stimuli.
what is the acute pathophysiology of asthma within the 1st 30mins ?
Mast cell-Ag interaction → histamine release
Bronchoconstriction, mucus plugs, mucosal swelling
what is the pathophysiology of chronic asthma within the 1st 12hrs ?
TH2 cells release IL-3,4,5 → mast cell, eosinophil and B cell recruitment
Airway remodelling
what are the symptoms of asthma?
Cough ± sputum (often at night)
Wheeze
Dyspnoea
Diurnal variation ̄c morning dipping
what key 6 questions should be asked during an asthma history?
Precipitants Diurnal variation Exercise tolerance Life effects: sleep, work Other atopy: hay fever, eczema Home and job environment
what medications can cause asthma?
Drugs: NSAIDS, β-B
how is the wheeze described for asthma?
Widespread polyphonic wheeze
what conditions are associated with asthma?
ABPA
Churg-Strauss
GORD
what are two DD for asthma?
COPD
pulmonary oedema
what blood tests can be done for asthma?
FBC (eosinophila)
raised IgE
aspergillus serology
what would CXR show for asthma?
hyperinflation
what spirometry pattern show and FEV1:FVC show for asthma?
Obstructive pattern ̄c FEV1:FVC < 0.75
by what % does B agonist improve FEV1?
> 15%
what general measures can be used for asthma TAME?
technique of inhaler use
avoidance of allergens, smoke, dust
monitor peak flow diary
educate with specialist nurse
what is the first step of the asthma ladder?
SABA as acquired
short acting b agonist