RESP Q's Flashcards
Pneumonia causing bacteria and how/who they present in
Klebsiella pneumonia = cavitating pneumonia in the upper lobes, mainly in diabetics and alcoholics
Mycoplasma pneumoniae = flu-like symptoms following a dry cough. CXR often shows patchy consolidation of one lower lobe.
Legionella pneumophilia = flu-like symptoms. It can also cause extra-pulmonary symptoms such as hepatitis, diarrhea and vomiting. Bi-basal consolidation on CXR
Staphylococcus aureus= often seen in IVDU, young, elderly or people with an underlying disease such as leukemia or cystic fibrosis
3 most common causes of lobar collapse
1) lung cancer (the most common cause in older adults)
2) asthma (due to mucous plugging)
3) foreign body
Signs of lobar collapse on CXR
Tracheal deviation + mediastinal shift towards the side of the collapse
Elevation of the hemidiaphragm on side of collapse
Causes of respiratory alkalosis
Anxiety leading to hyperventilation
pulmonary embolism (increased total minute ventilation)
Salicylate poisoning*
CNS disorders: stroke, subarachnoid haemorrhage, encephalitis
Altitude
Pregnancy (min ventilation rises as progesterone acts on respiratory center + O2 consumption and CO2 production increases so makes sense why hyperventilation occurs )
Causes of respiratory acidosis
COPD
Decompensation in other respiratory conditions e.g. life-threatening asthma / pulmonary oedema
Neuromuscular disease
Obesity hypoventilation syndrome
Sedative drugs: benzodiazepines, opiate overdose
Factors to consider when diagnosing asthma
Recurrent episodes of symptoms: may be triggered by viral infection, allergen exposure, NSAIDs/beta-blockers and/or exacerbated by exercise, cold air and emotion/laughter in children
Recorded observation of wheeze (Auscultation)
Symptom variability: asthma is generally worse at night or early in the morning
History of atopy (eczema/hayfever)
Absence of symptoms of alternative diagnosis: e.g. COPD, dysfunctional breathing or obesity*
historical record of variable peak flows or FEV1
