Exam 3 Flashcards

1
Q

What are arrhythmias?

A

Abnormal cardiac rhythms due to:
* Abnormal automaticity
* Triggered activity
* Re-entry (circus pathways)

Abnormal automaticity is spontaneous depolarization when not supposed to occur. Triggered activity often occurs during the refractory phase of the cardiac action potential. Re-entry involves electrical impulse circulation through damaged or delayed tissue.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
2
Q

What causes sinus tachycardia?

A

Pathologic Causes:
* Increased body temperature (e.g., fever)
* Cardiac toxicity
* Increased sympathetic discharge
Non-Pathologic Causes:
* Medications (e.g., stimulants)
* Caffeine
* Exercise (transient, usually benign)

Sinus tachycardia is characterized by an increased heart rate.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
3
Q

What are the causes of sinus bradycardia?

A

Causes:
* Excessive vagal stimulation (e.g., vasovagal syncope)
* Medications (e.g., beta blockers, calcium channel blockers)
* Neurological effects (e.g., elevated intracranial pressure)

Sinus bradycardia is characterized by a decreased heart rate.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
4
Q

What is a first-degree AV block?

A

Transmission delayed with a prolonged PR interval (>200 ms) on EKG

First-degree AV block is a type of conduction block arrhythmia.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
5
Q

What characterizes second-degree AV block?

A

Intermittent failure of conduction through AV node, with some P waves not followed by QRS complexes (dropped beats)

This type of block results in missed ventricular contractions.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
6
Q

What is the mechanism of third-degree AV block?

A

Atria and ventricles beat independently (AV dissociation), with ventricular rhythm maintained by Purkinje fibers or Bundle of His

This results in a slower and unreliable ventricular rate.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
7
Q

What are premature contractions?

A

Originate from ectopic pacemaker sites, can occur in:
* Atria – premature atrial contractions (PACs)
* AV node – junctional premature beats
* Ventricles – premature ventricular contractions (PVCs)

Frequent PVCs can lead to ventricular fibrillation, especially in damaged myocardium.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
8
Q

What are paroxysmal tachycardias?

A

Rapid, sudden-onset arrhythmias due to ectopic pacemaker, characterized by bursts of tachycardia

Can be supraventricular (from atria or AV node) or ventricular.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
9
Q

What is ventricular fibrillation (VF)?

A

Most life-threatening arrhythmia, often initiated by PVCs and maintained by multiple re-entry circuits throughout ventricles

VF results in no coordinated ventricular contraction and requires immediate defibrillation.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
10
Q

What is the role of surfactant in the lungs?

A

Reduces surface tension and increases lung compliance, helps prevent alveolar collapse at low lung volumes

Surfactant is produced by Type II pneumocytes.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
11
Q

What is pulmonary hypertension?

A

Occurs when pulmonary pressure increases significantly (e.g., >26 mmHg), can lead to pulmonary edema and right heart strain

Threshold for edema is pulmonary capillary pressure >26 mmHg.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
12
Q

What triggers asthma?

A

Triggers include:
* Allergens
* Pollutants
* Cold air
* Infections
* Exercise

Asthma is characterized by chronic airway inflammation and hyperresponsiveness.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
13
Q

What defines chronic bronchitis?

A

Productive cough lasting ≥3 months/year for 2 consecutive years

It is primarily caused by smoking and characterized by airway inflammation.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
14
Q

What are the symptoms of emphysema?

A

Symptoms include:
* Minimal cyanosis
* Pursed-lip breathing
* Thin appearance
* Increased respiratory effort

Emphysema is characterized by destruction of alveolar walls without fibrosis.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
15
Q

What is the main complication of cystic fibrosis?

A

Leading cause of death is respiratory failure from infections

Cystic fibrosis is caused by a mutation in the CFTR gene, leading to thick, sticky mucus.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
16
Q

What is the treatment for epiglottitis?

A

Immediate airway protection (intubation or tracheotomy) and IV antibiotics

Epiglottitis is a life-threatening emergency caused by bacterial infection, typically Haemophilus influenzae type B.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
17
Q

What is pneumoconiosis?

A

Chronic interstitial fibrosis due to inhalation of inorganic dust

Examples include anthracosis (coal dust) and silicosis (silica dust).

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
18
Q

What is the etiology of epiglottitis?

A

Bacterial infection, typically Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib)

Epiglottitis can lead to airway obstruction and is considered a life-threatening emergency.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
19
Q

What is the primary pathology of epiglottitis?

A

Inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis

This swelling can rapidly obstruct the airway.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
20
Q

What is the first treatment step for epiglottitis?

A

Immediate airway protection (intubation or tracheotomy)

Along with IV antibiotics.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
21
Q

What is pneumoconiosis?

A

Chronic interstitial fibrosis due to inhalation of inorganic dust

Common examples include anthracosis, silicosis, and asbestosis.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
22
Q

What is anthracosis?

A

Coal dust exposure, commonly referred to as ‘black lung’

It is a type of pneumoconiosis.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
23
Q

What is silicosis?

A

Silica dust exposure, often seen in sandblasting

It is a type of pneumoconiosis.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
24
Q

What is asbestosis?

A

Asbestos exposure, commonly found in insulation and shipyards

It is a type of pneumoconiosis.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
25
What mechanism leads to scarring and fibrosis in pneumoconiosis?
Macrophages engulf particles → release lysozymes → inflammatory damage ## Footnote This process results in progressive dyspnea and restrictive + obstructive features.
26
What are the general features of restrictive pulmonary disorders?
Disorders characterized by decreased lung expansion due to: * Lung parenchyma disease * Pleural abnormalities * Chest wall deformities * Neuromuscular dysfunction ## Footnote These disorders can be acute or chronic.
27
What are the types of pulmonary volumes decreased in restrictive pulmonary disorders?
* Total Lung Capacity (TLC) * Vital Capacity (VC) * Functional Residual Capacity (FRC) * Residual Volume (RV) ## Footnote These changes reflect the decreased ability of the lungs to expand.
28
What are common arterial blood gas findings in restrictive pulmonary disorders?
↓ PaO₂ (hypoxemia) and normal or ↓ PaCO₂ ## Footnote These findings indicate impaired gas exchange.
29
What is the pathophysiology of Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD)?
Infiltration of alveolar walls by inflammatory cells, fluid, and connective tissue ## Footnote This leads to fibroblast proliferation and irreversible fibrosis.
30
What are the symptoms of Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD)?
* Progressive dyspnea * Dry cough * Fatigue ## Footnote These symptoms reflect lung function impairment.
31
What is sarcoidosis characterized by?
Formation of non-caseating granulomas ## Footnote These granulomas are collections of epithelioid and immune cells.
32
What is the common treatment for sarcoidosis?
Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation ## Footnote Early detection leads to better outcomes.
33
What is hypersensitivity pneumonitis?
Immune-mediated alveolitis and bronchiolitis due to occupational exposure to inhaled organic dusts ## Footnote Examples include moldy hay and bird droppings.
34
What are the acute symptoms of hypersensitivity pneumonitis?
* Fever * Chills * Cough * Dyspnea ## Footnote Chronic exposure can lead to progressive pulmonary fibrosis.
35
What is the etiology of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)?
Direct or indirect injury to the alveolar-capillary membrane ## Footnote Common causes include sepsis, trauma, and pneumonia.
36
What is the pathophysiology of ARDS?
↑ Capillary permeability → protein-rich edema ## Footnote This leads to alveolar collapse and pulmonary vascular damage.
37
What are the clinical signs of Infant Respiratory Distress Syndrome (IRDS)?
* Grunting * Nasal flaring * Retractions * Cyanosis ## Footnote These signs indicate severe respiratory distress in infants.
38
What are the two main body fluid compartments?
* Intracellular fluid (ICF) * Extracellular fluid (ECF) ## Footnote ICF is ~2/3 of total body water, while ECF includes plasma and interstitial fluid.
39
What hormonal regulator increases water reabsorption in the kidneys?
Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH) ## Footnote It is produced in the hypothalamus and stored in the posterior pituitary.
40
What causes hyponatremia?
↓ Na⁺ concentration in plasma due to: * Excess water retention * Loss of Na⁺ ## Footnote Conditions like SIADH and diuretics can contribute.
41
What is the definition of edema?
Accumulation of fluid in interstitial space ## Footnote It can occur due to increased capillary hydrostatic pressure or decreased oncotic pressure.
42
What are the effects of hypokalemia?
* Hyperpolarized membranes * Muscle weakness * EKG changes ## Footnote Flattened T waves and U waves are common EKG findings.
43
What is the normal pH range of blood?
7.35–7.45 ## Footnote Even small deviations can have serious consequences.
44
What is metabolic acidosis characterized by?
Excess acid or bicarbonate loss leading to ↓ HCO₃⁻ ## Footnote Compensation occurs through hyperventilation.
45
What is the most common endocrine disorder?
Diabetes Mellitus ## Footnote It affects over 18 million in the U.S. and over 250 million worldwide.
46
What is Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM)?
Autoimmune destruction of pancreatic β-cells leading to absolute insulin deficiency ## Footnote It accounts for ~5–10% of diabetes cases.
47
What is the major acute complication of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM)?
Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State (HHS) or Nonketotic Coma ## Footnote T2DM is characterized by insulin resistance and eventual β-cell dysfunction.
48
What are the risks associated with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM)?
* Fetal macrosomia * Neonatal hypoglycemia * Increased maternal risk for T2DM later in life ## Footnote GDM occurs in 2–5% of pregnancies.
49
What is Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM)?
Occurs in 2–5% of pregnancies due to increased insulin demands not being met ## Footnote Risks include fetal macrosomia, neonatal hypoglycemia, and increased maternal risk for T2DM later in life.
50
What are the two main types of prediabetes?
* Impaired fasting glucose (IFG) * Impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) ## Footnote Often asymptomatic and associated with increased risk of T2DM and cardiovascular disease.
51
What lifestyle changes can help prevent progression from prediabetes?
* Diet * Exercise ## Footnote These changes can delay or prevent progression to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
52
What are macrovascular complications associated with chronic hyperglycemia?
* Atherosclerosis * Increased risk for myocardial infarction (MI) * Increased risk for stroke (CVA) ## Footnote Tight glucose control has limited effect on macrovascular disease.
53
What are some microvascular complications of chronic hyperglycemia?
* Retinopathy * Nephropathy * Neuropathy ## Footnote These are due to thickening of capillary basement membranes and endothelial dysfunction.
54
What are the symptoms of diabetic retinopathy?
* Capillary hemorrhages * Microaneurysms * Neovascularization leading to vision loss ## Footnote Can result in potential blindness.
55
What is nephropathy and its potential progression?
Characterized by glomerulosclerosis and decreased Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR); may progress to End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) ## Footnote Symptoms include proteinuria.
56
What are the effects of chronic hyperglycemia on neuropathy?
* Autonomic: GI dysmotility, bladder dysfunction, erectile dysfunction * Peripheral sensory: loss of protective sensation, increased risk for ulcers, infections, amputations ## Footnote May also include paresthesias, burning, and numbness.
57
What is the first-line agent in most T2DM cases?
Metformin (Biguanide) ## Footnote It decreases hepatic glucose production and increases peripheral insulin sensitivity without causing hypoglycemia.
58
What are the types of insulin therapy?
* Rapid-acting * Intermediate-acting * Long-acting ## Footnote Insulin is required in all T1DM and often needed in advanced T2DM.
59
What is the normal range for Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)?
* ~125 mL/min in men * ~115 mL/min in women ## Footnote GFR is regulated by autoregulation mechanisms.
60
What are the common causes of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?
* Diabetes * Hypertension ## Footnote CKD is defined as GFR <60 mL/min for ≥3 months.
61
What are the stages of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?
* Decreased Renal Reserve * Renal Insufficiency * End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) ## Footnote Each stage corresponds to increasing nephron loss and severity of symptoms.
62
What is the main function of Parathyroid Hormone (PTH)?
Secreted in response to low serum calcium (Ca²⁺); increases GI absorption of calcium, bone resorption, and renal Ca²⁺ reabsorption ## Footnote Also increases phosphate excretion.
63
What is the role of Vitamin D (Calcitriol) in calcium regulation?
Necessary for intestinal calcium absorption and acts synergistically with PTH ## Footnote It is synthesized in the skin and activated in the liver and kidney.
64
What are the symptoms of hyperthyroidism?
* Weight loss * Tachycardia * Heat intolerance * Exophthalmos * Goiter ## Footnote Often associated with Graves’ disease.
65
What are the complications of hyperparathyroidism?
* Osteoporosis * Kidney stones * Dehydration * Polyuria ## Footnote Caused by parathyroid adenoma or secondary to chronic renal failure.
66
What is the primary regulatory mechanism in endocrine regulation?
Negative feedback ## Footnote Types of feedback loops include ultra-short, short, and long loops.
67
What are the two types of endocrine disorders?
* Primary: Dysfunction of the target gland * Secondary: Dysfunction of the pituitary gland ## Footnote Tertiary dysfunction refers to hypothalamic dysfunction.
68
What cells secrete calcitonin?
Thyroid C (parafollicular) cells ## Footnote Calcitonin inhibits osteoclasts, leading to net bone deposition.
69
What role does calcitonin play in serum calcium regulation in adults?
Minor role ## Footnote Calcitonin primarily inhibits osteoclast activity.
70
What is the primary cause of hyperparathyroidism?
Parathyroid adenoma ## Footnote Hyperparathyroidism can also occur secondary to chronic renal failure.
71
What are the effects of hyperparathyroidism?
↑ Bone resorption, ↑ Serum calcium, Dehydration, polyuria ## Footnote Increased bone resorption can lead to osteoporosis and kidney stones.
72
What is the treatment for hyperparathyroidism?
Parathyroidectomy ## Footnote Surgical removal of the parathyroid glands is the primary treatment.
73
What are common etiologies of hypoparathyroidism?
Surgical removal, Congenital absence ## Footnote Surgical removal often occurs post-thyroidectomy.
74
What symptoms are associated with hypoparathyroidism?
Neuromuscular irritability, Hypocalcemia ## Footnote Symptoms include tetany and paresthesias.
75
What is the treatment for hypoparathyroidism?
Calcium and vitamin D supplementation ## Footnote This treatment helps to manage symptoms of hypocalcemia.
76
What hormone is secreted by the adrenal cortex?
Cortisol ## Footnote Cortisol is a glucocorticoid regulated by ACTH from the anterior pituitary.
77
What are the functions of cortisol?
↑ Gluconeogenesis, ↑ Protein catabolism, ↑ Appetite, ↓ Inflammation ## Footnote Cortisol also supports vascular tone and blood pressure.
78
What system is aldosterone a part of?
Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS) ## Footnote Aldosterone regulates sodium and potassium exchange in the distal nephron.
79
What are the functions of aldosterone?
Regulates Na⁺/K⁺ exchange, Promotes sodium reabsorption, Supports blood volume and pressure ## Footnote Aldosterone is crucial for maintaining electrolyte balance.
80
What is Addison’s Disease?
Adrenal Insufficiency ## Footnote It can be primary due to autoimmune destruction or secondary due to decreased ACTH.
81
What are the symptoms of Addison’s Disease?
Hypoglycemia, Hypotension, Hyperkalemia, Fatigue, Weight loss ## Footnote Skin hyperpigmentation occurs only in primary Addison’s Disease.
82
What is the treatment for Addison’s Disease?
Hormone replacement with glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids ## Footnote Common medications include hydrocortisone and fludrocortisone.
83
What is Cushing’s Syndrome?
Any cause of excess cortisol ## Footnote Causes include exogenous steroids and adrenal tumors.
84
What differentiates Cushing’s Disease from Cushing’s Syndrome?
Cushing’s Disease is due to a pituitary adenoma secreting excess ACTH ## Footnote Cushing’s Syndrome can have multiple causes beyond pituitary adenoma.
85
What are common symptoms of Cushing’s Syndrome?
Central obesity, Moon face, Buffalo hump, Striae, Hypertension, Hyperglycemia ## Footnote Symptoms may also include muscle wasting and psychiatric disturbances.
86
What are the treatments for Cushing’s Syndrome?
Surgery, Radiation, Medications to block cortisol synthesis ## Footnote Medications may include mitotane.