chapter 20

Tuberculosis (TB)

An infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs.

Active TB

When the TB organism is multiplying and causing symptoms, making the individual contagious.

Latent TB infection

An infection where the individual has no symptoms and is not contagious, but the organism is present.

Pleural effusion

Abnormal accumulation of fluid in the pleural space, leading to symptoms like dyspnea and decreased breath sounds.

Empyema

Pus in the pleural space, usually resulting from infections like pneumonia or lung abscess.

Pulmonary hypertension

Increased pressure in the pulmonary circulation, which can lead to right ventricular failure.

Cor pulmonale

Right-sided heart failure caused by pulmonary hypertension.

Pulmonary embolism (PE)

Obstruction of a pulmonary artery or its branches, usually by a thrombus from the venous system.

Occupational lung disease

Lung disease caused by inhaled dust or particles, such as silicosis and asbestosis.

Lobectomy

Surgical removal of one lobe of the lung.

Pneumonectomy

Surgical removal of an entire lung.

Thoracotomy

A surgical procedure to open the chest, often for lung surgeries.

Airborne transmission

The spread of diseases through respiratory droplets or aerosols, important in TB management.

Cough etiquette

Practices to minimize the spread of respiratory infections, including covering the mouth when coughing.

Directly observed therapy (DOT)

A treatment strategy where a healthcare worker supervises a patient's medication intake to ensure adherence.

Pleurisy

Inflammation of the pleural layers, characterized by sharp pain that worsens with breathing.

Chest tube

A tube inserted into the pleural space to remove air or fluid, often used after thoracotomy or lobectomy.

Infection control measures for TB

Include airborne isolation, appropriate respiratory protection, and strict adherence to therapy.

SCLC (Small Cell Lung Cancer)

A type of lung cancer that grows rapidly and metastasizes early, treated less frequently with surgery.

NSCLC (Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer)

A more common type of lung cancer, often treated with surgery if localized.

Foul-smelling sputum

A classic sign of lung abscess.

Oxygen therapy

A treatment to improve oxygenation, key in managing pulmonary conditions like PE and pulmonary hypertension.

COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)

Not the focus of Chapter 20, primarily covered in Chapter 21.