LUNG INFLATION DISORDERS (ATELECTASIS, CF, ETC)

What is atelectasis?

• the collapse of lung tissue

What causes atelectasis?

• external compression from fluid, tumours, or abdominal swelling

• airway obstruction

• high oxygen levels which increases gas absorption

• low surfactant production from anesthesia

What are the manifestations of atelectasis?

• dyspnea

• cough

• fever

• leukocytosis

Why is atelectasis common after surgery?

• pain that causes shallow breathing

• thick mucous in bronchioles

• surfactant reduction from anesthesia or narcotics

How do you prevent atelectasis from developing?

• deep breathing

• ambulance

• frequently changing positions when lying down

What is bronchiectasis?

• permanent dilation of the bronchi

What causes bronchiectasis?

• diseases like TB or CF that cause long term bronchial wall inflammation

  • the inflammation destroys the elastic and muscular tissue in the bronchiol walls

What are the clinical manifestations of bronchiectasis?

• chronic cough

• repeated lower respiratory infections

• large amounts of pus filled mucus (aka sputum)

• hemoptysis

• clubbing of the fingers

What is cystic fibrosis and what causes it?

• it is caused by a mutation in chloride channels

  • this prevents chloride from moving out of cells and into airways

  • it also causes thick mucus to build up in airways

• it is an inherited disorder

How does cystic fibrosis cause thicker mucous and why does it matter?

• it increases sodium and water absorption from secretions

• thicker mucous prevents cilia from clearing it

  • this leads to build up

How does cystic fibrosis lead to respiratory infections?

• mucous buildup increases infection risk

  • especially from P. aeruginosa

What do repeated infections cause in the lungs?

• bronchitis which can progress to bronchiectasis

How do you treat cystic fibrosis?

• antibiotics to control the infection

• pancreatic enzyme replacement