• Give your own definition of COPD.

A pulmonary disorder that occurs as a result of increased airway resistance or of decreased elastic recoil.

• Briefly describe the proposed aetiology and pathophysiology of chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

Chronic bronchitis: Aetiology

Chronic bronchitis is caused most often by exposure to airborne pollutants such as cigarette smoke, excessive dust in the air or chemicals. The bronchial lining becomes inflamed and the constant exposure to such pollutants begins to cause damge in the bronchioles.

Pathophysiology:

Chronic bronchitis is thought to be caused by overproduction and hypersecretion of mucus by goblet cells. Epithelial cells lining the airway response to toxic, infectious stimuli by releasing inflammatory mediators and pro inflammatory cytokines.

Emphysema: Etiology

The cause of emphysema is usually long-term exposure to irritants that damage your lungs and the airways. Tobacco smoke can also cause emphysema, especially if you inhale them.

Pathophysiology:

is pathologic diagnosis defined by permanent enlargement of airspaces distal to the terminal bronchioles. This leads to a decrease in the alveolar surface area available for gas exchange. Furthermore, loss of alveoli leads to airflow limitation.

 

• Which types of therapy are included in the treatment of a COPD patient?

Smoking cessation; Immunization against influenza; Bronchodilators; Oxygen inhalation: Rehydration and steaming

 

• Why is ipratropium more effective in the treatment of chronic bronchitis than in the treatment of bronchial asthma?

Ipatropium is an M3 antagonist. It reduces bronchoconstriction this results in decreased secretions. However with bronchial asthma increased secretions does not give the same effects.

• In which way do the skeletal muscle effects of theophylline have advantages in the treatment of COPD?

Theophylline improves contraction function of the diaphragm. It works by relaxing the muscles in the lungs and chest, since COPD is characterized by airway resistance.

• What is the role of oxygen therapy in COPD?

Oxygen treatment increases the amount of oxygen that flows into the lungs and bloodstream. If  COPD is severe and  blood oxygen levels are low, getting more oxygen can help breathe better.