Question 1
Not yet graded / 1 pts
Exercise 1 - Writing Activity
This exercise will take approximately 20 minutes to complete.
Exercise 1 - Question 1
To which categories of lung disease does emphysema belong?
You
...
Question 1
Not yet graded / 1 pts
Exercise 1 - Writing Activity
This exercise will take approximately 20 minutes to complete.
Exercise 1 - Question 1
To which categories of lung disease does emphysema belong?
Your Answer:
It is in the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease category.
Chronic airflow limitation (CAL)
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Question 2
Not yet graded / 1 pts
Exercise 1 - Question 2
Briefly describe the pathophysiology of emphysema.
Your Answer:
Emphysema is pathologically defined as an abnormal permanent enlargement of air spaces distal
to the terminal bronchioles, accompanied by the destruction of alveolar walls and without
obvious fibrosis. This process leads to reduced gas exchange, changes in airway dynamics that
impair expiratory airflow, and progressive air trapping.
Protease enzymes, normally present to destroy and eliminate particles and organisms inhaled
during breathing, are present in higher-than-normal levels. They damage the alveoli and small
airways by breaking down elastin. The alveolar sacs lose their elasticity and the small airways
collapse or narrow. Some alveoli are destroyed and others become large and flabby with
decreased area for effective gas exchange. An increased amount of air becomes trapped in the
lungs, caused by loss of elastic recoil in the alveolar walls, overstretching and enlargement of the
alveoli into air-filled spaces called bullae, and collapse of small airways (bronchioles). These
changes greatly increase the work of breathing. The hyperinflated lung flattens the diaphragm,
weakening the effect of the muscle. Hence the patient must use accessory muscles (neck, chest
wall, and abdomen) to breath. The increased effort increases oxygen demand, making the patient
work harder and resulting in an "air hunger" sensation. Gas exchange is also affected by the
increased work of breathing and loss of alveolar tissue.
[Show More]
 (1).png)
