Restrictive (interstitial) Lung Diseases Flashcards
What two parts is the interstitium between?
Alveolus and capillary
Why do you want the membranes involved in the interstitial space to be as close to each other as possible?
To facilitate the transport of CO2 (gas exchange)
In interstitial lung disease, what is the pathological process that is occurring?
The alveolar walls are becoming thickened
What does alveolar thickening lead to?
Reduced lung compliance (Stiffer lungs)
What happens to the FEV1/FVC ratio in ILD?
It remains normal
Why does the FEV1/FVC ratio remain normal during ILD?
As both FEV1 and FVC reduce?
What type of respiratory failure is linked to ILD?
Type 1
What is the definition of idiopathic?
Without known cause
What does the extensive damage to endothelial cells lead to in ‘diffuse alveolar damage?’
A huge outpouring of fluid and proteins
What is sarcoidosis?
A multisystem granulomatous disorder of unknown aetiology
What is special about the granulomas involved in sarcoidosis?
They are non-necrotising
What are the 5 main categories of antigens that cause hypersensitivity pneumonitis?
Thermophilic actinomycetes Bird/animal proteins Fungi Chemicals Others
What is hypersensitivity pneumonitis more likely than sarcoidosis to lead to?
Pulmonary fibrosis
Where does inflammation occur in hypersensitivity pneumonitis?
In the centriacinar region
What is the pathological process involved in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis?
UIP (usual interstitial pneumonitis)
