Module 9 Vocabulary

Alpha1-antitrypsin – A protein produced by the liver that helps protect the lungs from damage caused by enzymes, particularly elastase, which can damage lung tissue. A deficiency in this protein can lead to emphysema and other lung diseases.

AP chest dimensions/anteroposterior chest dimensions – The measurements of the chest from front (anterior) to back (posterior), often used to assess the size and shape of the chest in respiratory conditions.

Asthma/reactive airway disease (RAD)/reversible obstructive airway disease (ROAD) – A chronic inflammatory condition of the airways characterized by episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and coughing, which are usually reversible with treatment.

“Barrel chest” – A chest shape that results from chronic over-inflation of the lungs, often seen in patients with emphysema or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The chest appears rounded and expanded.

BCG (Bacillus Calmette–Guérin) – A vaccine primarily used against tuberculosis (TB). It is 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 and difficulty breathing, often seen in conditions like asthma.

Cavitations/cavities – Abnormal, air-filled spaces within lung tissue that can result from infections, such as tuberculosis or fungal infections.

Chronic bronchitis/Type B COPD – A type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) characterized by chronic inflammation of the bronchi, leading to excessive mucus production, coughing, and difficulty breathing.

COPD/chronic obstructive pulmonary disease – A group of lung diseases, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema, that cause airflow obstruction and breathing difficulties. It is typically caused by long-term exposure to irritants like cigarette smoke.

Cor pulmonale – Right-sided heart failure resulting from chronic lung disease, often due to COPD, leading to increased pressure in the pulmonary arteries and the right side of the heart.

Elastic recoil – The ability of the lung tissue to return to its original shape after being stretched, important for normal expiration and maintaining lung function. Decreased in diseases like emphysema.

Emphysema/Type A COPD – A type of COPD characterized by the destruction of the alveolar walls and the loss of lung elasticity, leading to difficulty exhaling and air trapping.

Extrapulmonary tuberculosis – Tuberculosis that occurs outside the lungs, affecting organs such as the kidneys, bones, and lymph nodes.

Granuloma/Ghon focus/tubercle – A small area of inflammation in the lung caused by the immune response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis, often seen in latent tuberculosis infections. It can calcify over time, forming a visible scar.

IGRA (interferon-gamma release assay) – A blood test used to detect infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Brand names include T-Spot and Quantiferon Gold. It measures the immune response to TB antigens.

Low-grade fever – A mild fever, typically defined as a body temperature between 99.5°F and 100.9°F, often indicating the presence of an infection or inflammation.

Malaise – A general feeling of discomfort, illness, or unease, often accompanying infections or chronic diseases like tuberculosis.

MDR (multi-drug resistant) and XDR (extensively drug-resistant) tuberculosis – Forms of tuberculosis that are resistant to multiple or nearly all standard antibiotics, making them more difficult to treat.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis – The bacterium that causes tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs but also capable of infecting other organs.

Obstructive disorders – Respiratory conditions where airflow is limited, typically due to narrowing or blockage of the airways. Examples include asthma, COPD, and bronchitis.

Pneumonia (typical vs atypical, community-acquired vs hospital-acquired or health care-associated) – Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs.

PPD skin test/TB skin test – A test used to detect exposure to Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It involves injecting a small amount of purified protein derivative (PPD) under the skin and observing the reaction after 48–72 hours.

Restrictive disorders – Respiratory conditions that cause difficulty expanding the lungs, such as pulmonary fibrosis or pleural disease. The lungs may be stiff and less able to expand during inhalation.

Tuberculosis/TB (latent TB infection/LTBI vs active disease) – TB is a bacterial infection that can be either:

Wheezing – A high-pitched whistling sound made during breathing, often associated with airway obstruction or constriction, as seen in asthma, COPD, or bronchitis.