Respiratory - Emphysema Flashcards
What is emphysema?
Abnormal enlargement of alveoli
What is the biggest cause of COPD (chronic bronchitis and emphysema)?
Smoking
What causes emphysema in terms of enzymes?
The body stops producing anti-elastase which minimises the amount of elastase which breakdowns elastin in alveoli walls
What are 2 signs of emphysema due to hyperexpansion?
Downward displacement of liver and loss of cardiac dullness due to lung hyper expansion
What are 2 signs of emphysema in terms of the lungs?
Barrel chest
Bronchial sounds
severe dyspnoea / SOB
What are the four classifications of COPD severity?
GOLD 1 - FEV1% of 80
GOLD 2 - FEV1% of 50-80
GOLD 3 - FEV1% of 30-50
GOLD 4 - FEV1% of under 30
What is an example of a short-acting beta-agonist given for COPD?
Salbutamol
What is an example of Long and short-acting -muscarinic antagonists given for COPD?
Short - Ipratropium
Long - tiotropium
What are Muscarinic receptor antagonists?
Prevents muscarinic receptors, to prevent smooth muscle contractions in the airway
What are Beta-receptor agonists?
Bind to beta 2 receptors to help bronchodilation
What is CPAP?
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure
A mask which uses air pressure to keep airways open
What is the first step of pharmacology management of patients with COPD?
Offer short or long-acting beta agonist
What is the second step of pharmacology management of patients with COPD without asthmatic features?
If symptoms are ongoing
Long and short-acting muscarinic antagonists
or if asthmatic features then inhaled corticosteroids
What is the third step of pharmacology management of patients with COPD with asthmatic features?
inhaled corticosteroids and long acting beta agonists
How can empysema be differentiated between chronic bronchitis?
Emphsema has barrel chest
Chronic bronchitis has mucus
