URTI Flashcards
What is the definition of Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTIs)?
Infections that affect the nose, nasal passages, sinuses, ear, and throat (pharynx and larynx).
What is the definition of Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (LRTIs)?
Infections that affect the airways and lungs (trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli).
Name a common causative organism of URTIs.
- Streptococcus pneumoniae
- Haemophilus influenzae
- Moraxella catarrhalis
- Staphylococcus aureus
- Mycoplasma pneumoniae
- Streptococcus pyogenes
- RSV
What role does saliva play in the natural defenses of the respiratory tract?
Saliva aids in pH regulation and contains antibodies.
What is the function of the mucociliary escalator?
It helps clear mucus and pathogens from the respiratory tract.
True or False: The cough reflex is part of the respiratory tract defense mechanisms.
True
What are the characteristic symptoms of croup?
- Barking cough
- Hoarseness
- Inspiratory stridor
- Respiratory distress
What is epiglottitis and what are its symptoms?
A bacterial infection of the epiglottis presenting with severe sore throat, high fever, difficulty swallowing, and drooling.
What is the primary cause of pertussis (whooping cough)?
Bordetella pertussis bacteria.
Fill in the blank: The most common viral cause of the common cold is _______.
[rhinoviruses]
What are the symptoms of influenza (flu)?
- Sudden onset of high fever
- Chills
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
- Dry cough
- Sore throat
What is the consequence of untreated strep throat?
- Rheumatic fever
- Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis
What is the main treatment for streptococcal pharyngitis?
Penicillin
What is the role of secretory IgA in respiratory tract defense?
It helps in mucosal immunity.
List two types of respiratory viruses that can cause infections.
- Influenza
- Rhinoviruses
What does the term ‘virulence factors’ refer to?
Characteristics that allow bacteria to cause infection, such as pili, capsules, and toxin production.
Fill in the blank: The most efficient mechanism at preventing influenza is _______.
[vaccination]
What is the incubation period for measles?
Weeks
What is the significance of the mumps virus in terms of contagion?
It is extremely contagious and spreads via droplets.
What are some complications of mumps?
- Orchitis
- Epididymitis
- Meningitis
- Encephalitis
What is the typical treatment for bacterial sinusitis?
Antibiotics, often amoxicillin.
True or False: Cough reflex sensitivity can be affected by medications.
True
What type of infection is commonly associated with Staphylococcus aureus?
Skin and soft tissue infections, but can also cause sinusitis and otitis media.
What is the pathophysiology of secondary invaders in respiratory infections?
They infect when host defenses are impaired, often following a primary viral infection.
Name two common viral infections spread by droplet transmission.
- Mumps
- Measles
What is the treatment for whooping cough?
Antibiotics and supportive care.
What is the role of macrophages in the respiratory tract?
They destroy foreign material.
