Emphysema

Question 1

what is emphysema characterized by?

Answer 1

the breakdown of elastin in the alveolar septa and bronchial walls as well as breakdown of alveolar and bronchial wall components by proteases

Question 2

what are proteases?

Answer 2

enzymes that digest proteins

Question 3

why does emphysema occur?

Answer 3

this occurs due to an imbalance between proteases and antiproteases as a result of increased protease activity and inhibition of normal endogenous antiprotease activity in the lung

Question 4

what is the leading cause of airway epithelial inflammation from toxins in tobacco or air polution?

Answer 4

emphysema

Question 5

what are proteases released from?

Answer 5

neutrophils, alveolar macrophages and other inflammatory cells

Question 6

what are the most imported proteases activated in emphysema?

Answer 6

elastases, cathepsins and matrix metalloprotease

Question 7

normally, antiproteases such as alpha 1 antitrypsin inhibit the activity of proteases in the lungs, however, antiprotease production and release is inadequate in smokers that develop COPD. TRUE OR FALSE

Answer 7

true

Question 8

primary emphysema is commonly linked to what?

Answer 8

an inherited deficiency of alpha-1 antitrypsin

Question 9

those with primary emphysema often develop the disease before what age?

Answer 9

40 or in their early 40s and do NOT have history of smoking

Question 10

what causes a matched ventilation perfusion defect?

Answer 10

septal destruction in the alveoli destroys portions of the pulmonary capillary bed

Question 11

what does the V/Q defect impair?

Answer 11

gas exchange, resulting in hypoxemia

Question 12

what causes an abnormal enlargement of acini?

Answer 12

air trapping, resulting in an increase in residual volume and total lung capacity