What organism causes Tuberculosis (TB)?
Mycobacterium tuberculosis - acid-fast bacilli (rod-shaped)
Appears bright red on Ziehl-Neelsen stain.
List the risk factors for Tuberculosis (TB).
- Exposure to infectious TB case
- HIV/immunocompromised
- Recent travel to endemic areas
These factors increase the likelihood of contracting TB.
What are the clinical features of Tuberculosis (TB)?
- Persistent cough (>3 weeks)
- Haemoptysis
- Night sweats & fever
- Weight loss & lethargy
- Lymphadenopathy
- Erythema nodosum
These symptoms are indicative of TB infection.
What investigations are used for Tuberculosis (TB)?
- Sputum sample - Ziehl-Neelsen stain
- Mantoux test
- Interferon-gamma release assay
- CXR findings
CXR findings include patchy consolidation, pleural effusions, and hilar lymphadenopathy.
What does the RIPE regimen for Tuberculosis (TB) include?
- Rifampicin - 6 months
- Isoniazid - 6 months (+ Pyridoxine)
- Pyrazinamide - 2 months
- Ethambutol - 2 months
This regimen is essential for effective TB treatment.
What is the most common cause of Community-acquired Pneumonia (CAP)?
- Streptococcus pneumoniae
CAP is a significant health concern and requires prompt treatment.
List the clinical features of Pneumonia.
- Cough with sputum production
- Shortness of breath
- Fever
- Pleuritic chest pain
These symptoms help in diagnosing pneumonia.
What is the CURB-65 Score used for in Pneumonia management?
- Confusion
- Urea >7 mmol/L
- Respiratory rate ≥30
- Blood pressure <90/60 mmHg
- Age ≥65
Each point helps assess the severity of pneumonia.
What are the antibiotic treatments for mild and severe CAP?
- Mild CAP: Oral amoxicillin, doxycycline, or clarithromycin (5 days)
- Moderate/severe: IV antibiotics initially (e.g., co-amoxiclav + clarithromycin)
Treatment should follow local guidelines.
What is the pathophysiology of Asthma?
- Type 1 hypersensitivity (IgE-mediated)
- Reversible airway obstruction
Understanding the underlying mechanisms is crucial for effective management.
List the episodic symptoms of Asthma.
- Shortness of breath
- Wheeze
- Dry cough
- Chest tightness
These symptoms can vary in intensity and frequency.
What are the NICE recommendations for Asthma investigations?
- Eosinophil count OR fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO)
- Spirometry with reversibility testing
- Peak flow diary (2-4 weeks)
- Direct bronchial challenge testing
These tests help confirm the diagnosis and assess severity.
What does the OSHIMTE acronym stand for in acute asthma management?
- Oxygen
- Salbutamol nebulizers
- Hydrocortisone IV
- Ipratropium bromide nebulizers
- Magnesium IV
- Theophylline IV
- Escalate/ITU if needed
This approach is critical during acute exacerbations.
What are the drugs to avoid in Asthma management?
- Beta-blockers
- Adenosine/Aspirin
- NSAIDs
These medications can exacerbate asthma symptoms.
What is the definition of Pleural Effusion?
Fluid in pleural space
This condition can lead to respiratory complications.
List the causes of Transudative Pleural Effusion.
- Congestive heart failure
- Hypoalbuminaemia
- Hypothyroidism
- Meigs syndrome
These conditions lead to low protein levels in pleural fluid.
What are the clinical features of Pleural Effusion?
- Shortness of breath
- Dullness to percussion
- Reduced/absent breath sounds
- Tracheal deviation away from large effusion
These findings are important for diagnosis.
What are the key CXR interpretation tips for Pneumothorax?
- Look for lung edge with air beyond it
This is a crucial sign for diagnosing pneumothorax.
What is the emergency management for Tension Pneumothorax?
- Needle decompression - large bore cannula into 2nd intercostal space, mid-clavicular line
- Then chest drain
Immediate intervention is necessary to prevent life-threatening complications.
