Clinical features of COPD Flashcards
what is the general definition of COPD
slowly progressive disorder characterized by airflow obstruction that does not change over several months.
what can be a few of the symptoms of COPD
Goblet cell hypoplasia
narrowing of the airways
excessive mucus
in the UK how many people are diagnosed with COPD
900,000
typically who gets COPD
disease of “poverty” as people who get COPD usually have a worse diet
What is the mortality of COPD in the uk and worldwide
uk it is the 6th most common cause of death
what are risk factors that cause COPD and are not due to smoking (these account for 15% of cases)
chronic asthma passive smoking maternal smoking air pollution occupation
where is a-1 antitrypsin normally found
blood stream
lungs
What is the function of A-1 antitrypsin
it is a protease inhibitor and regulates elastase
people that have a-1 antitrypsin deficiency are more likely to develop COPD why
without a-1-antitripsin elastase will be unregulated and will break down too much elastin in the lungs which can lead to COPD
define Fibrosing Alveolitis
progressive thickening of the walls of the air sacs of the lungs, as a result it is difficult for oxygen to pass into the bloodstream
If no cause is found for fibrosing alveolitis what is it know as
IPF
What does Cushingoid syndrome refer to
constellation of symptoms and signs caused by an excess of cortisol hormone
While facial puffiness and weight gain are typical features of aCushingoid appearance
what is Ascites
accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, causing abdominal swelling
define hepatomegaly
abnormal enlargement of the liver
define cyanosis
bluish discoloration of the skin due to poor circulation or inadequate oxygenation of the blood
