Respiratory and Pleural Pathologies

Flashcards covering key concepts related to respiratory diseases, pleura anatomy, and related pathology.

Congestion, Red Hepatization, Gray Hepatization, Resolution

Four stages of pneumonia inflammation.

Bronchopneumonia

Patchy inflammation centered on the bronchi, caused by pathogens like S. aureus and Klebsiella.

Interstitial Pneumonia

Also known as 'Atypical pneumonia', caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae; inflammation occurs in the alveolar walls.

Tuberculosis (TB)

Infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, characterized by primary TB with Ghon Complex and secondary TB with cavitation.

Pleura

The membrane covering the lungs; visceral pleura covers the lung itself, while parietal pleura lines the chest wall.

Pleuritis

Inflammation of the pleura causing sharp pain during breathing.

Empyema

A collection of pus in the pleural cavity.

Pleural Effusion

Fluid in the pleural space; categorized as exudate (high protein) or transudate (low protein).

Pneumothorax

Presence of air in the pleural cavity; tension pneumothorax is a medical emergency.

Mediastinitis

Inflammation of the mediastinal connective tissue.

Malignant Mesothelioma

A rare cancer of the pleura, often linked to asbestos exposure.

CDKN2A (p16) gene

Common mutation associated with mesothelioma, located on chromosome 9p.

Anterior Mediastinum (The 4 T's)

Includes Thymoma, Teratoma, Terrible Lymphoma, and Thyroid tissue.

D-dimer

A test used to screen for Pulmonary Embolism.