COPD

Question 1

Define COPD

Answer 1

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Umbrella term for long term pulmonary disorders, categorised by airflow obstruction. Preferred term for patients previously diagnosed as having chronic bronchitis or emphysema.

Question 2

What is FEV and FVC?

Answer 2

Forced expiratory volume and forced vital capacity

Question 3

How is chronic bronchitis identified?

Answer 3

Presence of chronic cough and recurrent increased bronchial secretions sufficient to cause expectoration.

Question 4

List pathophysiology of chronic bronchitis:

Answer 4

Increased size of mucus secreting glands in bronchial tree => increased number of mucus secreting goblet cells therefore increased mucus production and need for expectoration