Module 9 Vocabulary

Alpha1-antitrypsin

A protein produced by the liver that helps protect the lungs from damage caused by enzymes, particularly elastase.

AP chest dimensions

Measurements of the chest from front (anterior) to back (posterior), used to assess the size and shape of the chest in respiratory conditions.

Asthma

A chronic inflammatory condition of the airways characterized by episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and coughing.

Barrel chest

A chest shape resulting from chronic over-inflation of the lungs, often seen in patients with emphysema or COPD.

BCG (Bacillus Calmette–Guérin)

A vaccine primarily used against tuberculosis (TB), made from a weakened strain of Mycobacterium bovis.

Bronchospasm

The sudden constriction of the muscles in the walls of the bronchi and bronchioles, leading to narrowing of the airways.

Cavitations

Abnormal, air-filled spaces within lung tissue that can result from infections, such as tuberculosis.

Chronic bronchitis

A type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) characterized by chronic inflammation of the bronchi and excessive mucus production.

COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, a group of lung diseases causing airflow obstruction and breathing difficulties.

Cor pulmonale

Right-sided heart failure resulting from chronic lung disease, often due to COPD.

Elastic recoil

The ability of lung tissue to return to its original shape after being stretched, important for normal expiration.

Emphysema

A type of COPD characterized by the destruction of alveolar walls and loss of lung elasticity.

Extrapulmonary tuberculosis

Tuberculosis that occurs outside the lungs, affecting other organs such as kidneys or bones.

Granuloma

A small area of inflammation in the lung caused by the immune response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

IGRA

A blood test used to detect infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Low-grade fever

A mild fever typically defined as a body temperature between 99.5°F and 100.9°F.

Malaise

A general feeling of discomfort or unease, often accompanying infections.

MDR tuberculosis

Forms of tuberculosis resistant to multiple standard antibiotics.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis

The bacterium that causes tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs.

Obstructive disorders

Respiratory conditions where airflow is limited due to narrowing or blockage of the airways.

Pneumonia

An infection of the lungs; can be typical (common bacteria) or atypical (less common organisms).

PPD skin test

A test used to detect exposure to Mycobacterium tuberculosis by injecting a small amount of purified protein derivative under the skin.

Restrictive disorders

Respiratory conditions that cause difficulty expanding the lungs, such as pulmonary fibrosis.

Tuberculosis

A bacterial infection that can be latent (not active) or active (causing symptoms).

Wheezing

A high-pitched whistling sound during breathing, often associated with airway obstruction.