Asthma

Question 1

What does variability in Asthma mean?

Answer 1

Asthma is variable in it’s clinical expression as well as lung function.

Question 2

Give 3 main contributing factors to the parthenogenesis of Asthma

Answer 2

Genetics
Environment
Atopy

Question 3

Name 3 main triggers/phenotype of Asthma

Answer 3

1. Bronchial hypersensitivity (May be a response to perfume, laughing etc.)
2. Airway inflammation (Eosinophilic, CD4+)
3. Airway obstruction (Bronchospasms, oedema)

Question 4

A patient comes into your practice with wheezing at Night, What is the diagnosis?

Answer 4

Asthma

Question 5

How does typical Asthma present?

Answer 5

Wheezing (typically worse at night),

Tight chestedness, dyspnoea etc

Question 6

Name and explain the 3 main types of asthma.

Answer 6

Extrinsic asthma (Most common, affecting almost 80% of asthmatic patients, IgE mediated. Starts in children- is outgrown for a while before it returns in old age) Allergic Asthma

Intrinsic asthma: (commonly seen in older people and is not atopic).

Occupational Asthma- diagnosed with a lung function test during the week vs over the weekend

Question 7

How is Asthma diagnosed?

Answer 7

SPTS test- Tests for atopy not asthma.
Exhaled Nitric oxide: Measures eosinophilic airway inflammation.
Serum IgE:

Question 8

Give an example of a asthma management drug combination, as well as an explanation for your combination choice:

Answer 8

Asthmatic patients can be administered a LABA, this is a B-agonist and a reliever. It cannot however be taken alone. It must be taken in conjunction with a inhaled steroid i.e. a LAMA. NOTE: LAMA’s cannot be taken as a first line drug

Question 9

Give 5 signs of life threatening Asthma

Answer 9

Monosyllabic speech 
Respiratory distress
Silent chest
Exhaustion/ cyanosis
PEF graph less than 50

Question 10

What is the treatment for life threatening asthma

Answer 10

SABA
Inhaled corticosteroid
Oxygen