Respiratory diseases

Question 1

What is the definition of emphysema?

Answer 1

An increase beyond the normal size of airspaces distal to the terminal bronchioles (the respiratory bronchioles and alveoli). This is caused by either dilatation or destruction of their walls and without obvious fibrosis.

Question 2

What are the different types of emphysema?

Answer 2

Centriacinar ( this is the form that is associated with smoking)
Panacinar
Periacinar
SCAR ('irregular')
Bullous emphysema

Question 3

Explain centriacinar emphysema

Answer 3

It is located in the central portion of the secondary pulmonary lobules around the central bronchioles. It usually involves the superior parts of the lung.
This may be related to inflammation of the bronchioles and to the effects of inhaled dust.

Question 4

What is Panacinar emphysema?

Answer 4

It effects all of the secondaru pulmonary lobule. It is usually found in the inferior part of the lung.

Question 5

What is Panacinar emphysema often associated with?

Answer 5

Alpha 1 antitrypsin deficiency