Theme 6: Respiratory Pathology Flashcards
Which of the following is triggered by factors such as animal dander, exercise, smoke and NSAIDs?
a) Extrinsic asthma
b) Intrinsic (non-atopic) asthma
a) Extrinsic asthma
Extrinsic asthma:
- has obvious triggers
- is often familial
- tends to be associated with eczema and perennial rhinitis
- more common in children and young adults
- is more common than intrinsic (non-atopic) asthma
Which age group is more affected by non-atopic asthma?
Intrinsic (non-atopic) asthma usually affects middle aged/older people
During an asthma attack, which is more difficult:
a) Inhalation
b) Exhalation
c) Inhalation and exhalation are equally as difficult
b) Exhalation
The narrowing of the airways causes problems with exhalation. During inhalation, the airways are pulled open making it easier.
COPD is a combination of two distinct pathological entities that commonly occur together. What are they?
Chronic bronchitis:
- airway inflammation
- mucous hypersecretion
- “cough with sputum for 3 months in two consecutive years”
Emphysema:
- anatomical change to airways: dilation, air trapping, hyperinflation
- “abnormal enlargement of alveolar airspaces”
What is the primary cause of chronic bronchitis and emphysema?
Smoking
Which respiratory pathology is characterised by increased elastase and decreased antielastase, leading to decreased gas exchange?
Emphysema
