Week 7 Lecture 2 Flashcards
(162 cards)
What is atelectasis?
Atelectasis is a medical condition characterized by the collapse or incomplete expansion of a part or all of the lung.
What can cause atelectasis?
Various reasons including blockage of the airways, pressure from outside the lung, or weakened lung tissue.
What is resorption atelectasis?
Resorption atelectasis occurs when the airway leading to a portion of the lung is blocked, preventing air from reaching the alveoli.
What are the major causes of resorption atelectasis?
- Aspiration of a foreign body blocking a conducting airway
- Tumor or other growth
- A mucous plug
What is compression atelectasis?
Compression atelectasis happens when there is external pressure on the lung, preventing it from expanding fully.
What are common causes of compression atelectasis?
- Tumor
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Fluid accumulation in the pleural cavity
- Pneumothorax
What is the role of the pleura?
The pleura provides protection, lubrication, and support to the lungs during breathing.
What are the two layers of the pleura?
- Visceral Pleura
- Parietal Pleura
What is pleural effusion?
Pleural effusion is an abnormal collection of fluid in the pleural space.
What are the two major types of pleural effusions?
- Transudative
- Exudative
What characterizes transudative pleural effusion?
Transudate is protein- and cell-poor fluid that accumulates due to an imbalance of Starling forces.
What are common causes of exudative pleural effusions?
- Malignant diseases
- Inflammatory conditions
- Infectious diseases
- Vascular issues
What is a parapneumonic effusion?
Parapneumonic effusion is an accumulation of fluid in the pleural space that occurs as a complication of pneumonia.
What are the stages of a parapneumonic effusion?
- Exudative phase
- Fibrinopurulent stage
- Organization stage
What is empyema?
Empyema is a collection of pus within the pleural cavity.
What are the clinical features of pleural effusions?
- Dyspnea
- Chest pain
True or False: Transudates tend to be bilateral.
True
What is the normal intrapleural pressure?
Normal intrapleural pressure is around -10 cm water at the lung bases.
What can cause a pneumothorax?
Trauma and obstructive lung disease can cause a pneumothorax.
What is the primary function of mesothelium?
To provide a smooth, protective surface that allows organs to move against one another with minimal friction.
What is the typical volume of pleural fluid present in the pleural cavity?
Normally, between 10 – 25 ml of pleural fluid.
What happens to pleural fluid production in certain medical conditions?
Conditions can disrupt the balance of pleural fluid production and absorption, leading to pleural effusion.
What is the function of the pleural fluid?
The pleural fluid acts as a lubricant, allowing smooth movement of the lungs during breathing.
What is the significance of the phrase ‘the sun cannot set on a parapneumonic effusion’?
It emphasizes the urgency of diagnosing and treating parapneumonic effusions promptly.