Emphysema Flashcards
what is emphysema characterized by?
the breakdown of elastin in the alveolar septa and bronchial walls as well as breakdown of alveolar and bronchial wall components by proteases
what are proteases?
enzymes that digest proteins
why does emphysema occur?
this occurs due to an imbalance between proteases and antiproteases as a result of increased protease activity and inhibition of normal endogenous antiprotease activity in the lung
what is the leading cause of airway epithelial inflammation from toxins in tobacco or air polution?
emphysema
what are proteases released from?
neutrophils, alveolar macrophages and other inflammatory cells
what are the most imported proteases activated in emphysema?
elastases, cathepsins and matrix metalloprotease
normally, antiproteases such as alpha 1 antitrypsin inhibit the activity of proteases in the lungs, however, antiprotease production and release is inadequate in smokers that develop COPD. TRUE OR FALSE
true
primary emphysema is commonly linked to what?
an inherited deficiency of alpha-1 antitrypsin
those with primary emphysema often develop the disease before what age?
40 or in their early 40s and do NOT have history of smoking
what causes a matched ventilation perfusion defect?
septal destruction in the alveoli destroys portions of the pulmonary capillary bed
what does the V/Q defect impair?
gas exchange, resulting in hypoxemia
what causes an abnormal enlargement of acini?
air trapping, resulting in an increase in residual volume and total lung capacity