Random Facts (Resp)

Question 1

Transudate

Answer 1

< 30g Protein

Means there is a systematic failure:

• Cardiac failure
• Renal failure
• Liver failure
• Endocrine failure (hypothyroidism)
• Nutritional failure (hypoalbuinaemia)

Question 2

Exudate

Answer 2

> 30g Protein

Means there is:

• Inflammation
• Cell destruction

Question 3

Signs of Lung tumour

Answer 3

SPHERE

SVC obstruction = Malar flush
Pancoast Tumour
Horner's Syndrome
Endocrine Syndromes
Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Damage = Hoarse voice
Effusions (Pleural)

Question 4

Mesothelioma

Answer 4

Cancer of the pleura, due to asbestos exposure

Question 5

Small Cell Carcinoma

Answer 5

A neuro-endocrine cancer of the lungs, producing ACTH that leads to overproduction of cortisol from the cortex of the adrenal gland. This can then lead to Cushing’s syndrome.

• It is found centrally in the lungs
• It metastasizes quickly, so can only treat with chemo

Question 6

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Answer 6

A cancer of the lungs, producing PTH, this can lead to hypercalcaemia.

• It is found centrally in the lungs
• It is the most common cancer in smokers

Question 7

Adenocarcinoma

Answer 7

• Is common in non-smokers

- It is found peripherally

Question 8

Shifts Oxygen Dissociation curve to the LEFT

Answer 8

The L rule

• low H+ (alkali)
• low temperature
• low pCO2
• low 2, 3-DPG

+ poisoning

Question 9

Shifts Oxygen Dissociation curve to the RIGHT

Answer 9

“CADET, face right”

Raised:
    pCO2
      Acidosis
2,3-DPG
      Exercise
      Temperature

+ SickleCell disease

Question 10

Respiratory Failure Type 1

Answer 10

Low oxygen in the blood

Examples:

• high altitude
• left to right shunt
• diffusion problem (Pneumonia, ARDS)

Question 11

Respiratory Failure Type 2

Answer 11

High CO2 in the blood

Examples:

• increased airway resistance (COPD, asthma)
• neuromuscular problems (Guillan barre syndrome)