Asthma

Question 1

Description

Answer 1

Reversible obstruction of the airways.

Bronchospasm and excessive airway secretions

Question 2

Clinical presentation

Answer 2

Wheeze, dyspnoea, chest tightness, cough (especially after exercise, cold air, allergen exposure)
History of asthma, atopy, regular episodes.
Paroxysmal

Question 3

Pathophysiology

Answer 3

Inflammation: Triggers cause an inflammatory cascade in the bronchial tree. Mast cells, eosinophils, T lymphocytes and dendritic cells increased in bronchial wall, membranes and secretions. Lymphocytes produce ILs to start cascade -> IgE produced. Muscular: Increased contraction of smooth muscle in bronchial wall. Remodelling causes more muscle mass in wall and increased number of goblet cells.

Question 4

Aetiology

Answer 4

Largely unknown
Atopy-IgE antibodies readily produced in response to common antigens
Increased response of airways to common stimuli-histamine and methacholine

Question 5

Diagnostic tests

Answer 5

Spirometry, PEF

History

Question 6

Treatment

Answer 6

1. SABA
2. Corticosteroids
3. LABA
4. Increased dose of corticosteroids
5. Prednisolone
6. Hospital

Question 7

Complications

Answer 7

Pneumonia, pneumothorax