Asthma Overview for USMLE
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Questions and Answers

What is the purpose of pleurodesis in patients with recurrent pneumothoraces?

  • To obliterate the pleural space (correct)
  • To promote lung expansion
  • To drain fluid from the pleural space
  • To relieve symptoms of thoracic pain

Which of the following is a common cause of pleural effusion as per the observed patterns?

  • Pneumothorax
  • Left heart failure (correct)
  • Asthma exacerbation
  • Pulmonary embolism

In the context of barotrauma, which scenario could lead to a pneumothorax?

  • Experiencing high altitude without acclimatization
  • Descending too quickly underwater
  • Ascending too quickly from underwater (correct)
  • Diving in shallow waters

What clinical signs indicate the presence of pleural effusion?

<p>Dullness to percussion (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT part of the triad seen in Meigs' syndrome?

<p>Left-sided pleural effusion (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of endothelin-1 in patients with pulmonary hypertension?

<p>It is elevated in pulmonary hypertension. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is essential in differentiating limited and diffuse scleroderma?

<p>Involvement of renal function. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the clinical presentation of limited scleroderma (CREST syndrome)?

<p>Esophageal dysmotility leading to GERD. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which treatment is used to block endothelin-1 receptors in pulmonary hypertension?

<p>Bosentan. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes a clinical feature of diffuse scleroderma?

<p>Skin tightening and sclerodactyly. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is an appropriate recommendation to reduce the recurrence of Raynaud's phenomenon?

<p>Dress warmly in cold weather. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which medication should be avoided in patients with Raynaud's phenomenon due to its vasoconstrictive effects?

<p>a1 agonists. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does sclerodactyly manifest as in patients with scleroderma?

<p>Tightening of the skin on the fingers. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the defining feature of type I respiratory failure during an acute asthma attack?

<p>Low levels of both CO2 and O2 (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the initial diagnostic step recommended for asthma?

<p>Spirometry (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which medication is first-line for managing acute asthma attacks?

<p>Albuterol (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When considering long-term management for a patient with frequent asthma episodes, what medication should be added if albuterol alone is insufficient?

<p>Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the expected spirometry curve appearance in a patient with asthma?

<p>Concave (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should NOT be used to diagnose asthma during an acute episode?

<p>Methacholine challenge (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which intervention is considered the last resort for outpatient asthma management?

<p>Oral prednisone (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In patients with asthma who have a history of aspirin allergy, which medication can be particularly effective?

<p>Leukotriene blockers (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the cause of primary ciliary dyskinesia (Kartagener syndrome)?

<p>Abnormality of cilia function due to defective dynein arm (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common respiratory symptom of a patient with situs inversus who has primary ciliary dyskinesia?

<p>Recurrent pneumonias (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a patient diagnosed with primary pulmonary hypertension, which genetic mutation is often implicated?

<p>Mutations in the BMPR2 gene (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A 25-year-old woman presents with increased pulmonary vascular markings and a loud P2 on auscultation. What condition is most likely indicated?

<p>Primary pulmonary hypertension (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following conditions would NOT be a secondary cause of pulmonary hypertension?

<p>Primary pulmonary hypertension (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with primary ciliary dyskinesia may experience complications in which reproductive process?

<p>Ectopic pregnancy (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which is NOT a typical clinical finding in cor pulmonale secondary to primary pulmonary hypertension?

<p>Junctional rhythm on ECG (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is accurate regarding the differences between cystic fibrosis and primary ciliary dyskinesia related to fertility?

<p>Primary ciliary dyskinesia has decreased motility but sperm are present. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of granulomas found in sarcoidosis?

<p>Non-caseating granulomas (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which substance is primarily secreted by epithelioid macrophages in the lungs of a sarcoidosis patient?

<p>1,25-(OH)2-D3 (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What key laboratory finding is typically seen in patients with sarcoidosis?

<p>Normal phosphate levels (B), Hypercalcemia (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a patient with sarcoidosis, which of the following is usually suppressed?

<p>Parathyroid hormone (PTH) (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common demographic presentation of a patient with sarcoidosis?

<p>African-American woman in her twenties to thirties (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What radiological finding is associated with sarcoidosis on CXR or CT scans?

<p>Bihilar lymphadenopathy (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What symptom might be present in a sarcoidosis patient aside from respiratory symptoms?

<p>Erythema nodosum (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be considered if a patient vignette suggests sarcoidosis but states a normal CXR?

<p>Choose a diagnosis of asthma (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What mechanism does aspirin use to potentially trigger asthma symptoms?

<p>Inhibition of COX and shunting of arachidonic acid (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which condition is known to potentially present with a dry cough, especially worsened in winter, indicating cough-variant asthma?

<p>Asthma (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the Samter triad associated with?

<p>Aspirin allergy, asthma, and nasal polyps (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'increased expiratory phase' indicate in obstructive lung pathology?

<p>Difficulty exhaling air out of the lungs (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In cases of asthma, what is typically observed in arterial blood gas analysis during an acute episode?

<p>Decreased CO2 and increased pH (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does a1-antitrypsin deficiency impact the risk of developing emphysema and cirrhosis?

<p>It raises the risk for early-onset emphysema and cirrhosis. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which symptom is characteristic of COPD as opposed to asthma regarding the onset of respiratory issues?

<p>Usually manifests after 20+ years of smoking (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common presentation of cough-variant asthma?

<p>Dry cough without wheezing (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Pulmonary Hypertension Findings

A loud second heart sound (P2) and tricuspid regurgitation are typical findings in pulmonary hypertension, but they don't necessarily indicate Cor pulmonale.

Endothelin-1 Role in Pulmonary Hypertension

Endothelin-1 is a potent vasoconstrictor that is elevated in pulmonary hypertension from any cause, particularly in primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH), a common USMLE topic.

Bosentan Treatment for Pulmonary Hypertension

Bosentan is a medication that blocks endothelin-1 receptors and is a high-yield treatment for pulmonary hypertension.

Type I Respiratory Failure

A type of respiratory failure characterized by low oxygen and low carbon dioxide levels, often seen in acute asthma attacks.

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Type II Respiratory Failure

A type of respiratory failure marked by low oxygen levels and high carbon dioxide levels, often observed in asthma after the initial phase when the body compensates for the low oxygen.

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Systemic Sclerosis

Systemic sclerosis (Scleroderma) is an autoimmune disease characterized by fibrosis and hardening of tissues in multiple organs.

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Limited Scleroderma

Limited scleroderma is characterized by the CREST syndrome: Calcinosis, Raynaud's phenomenon, Esophageal dysmotility, Sclerodactyly, and Telangiectasias.

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Spirometry

A common diagnostic tool for asthma, it assesses airflow during breathing and can identify obstructive lung disease.

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Diffuse Scleroderma

Diffuse scleroderma includes the CREST syndrome symptoms plus renal involvement, leading to dangerously high blood pressure due to increased renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) activation.

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Methacholine Challenge

A drug used to induce bronchoconstriction, often used to test for asthma when a patient has suspect symptoms. It is not used during acute asthma episodes.

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Scleroderma and Pulmonary Fibrosis

Both limited and diffuse scleroderma can cause pulmonary fibrosis, leading to pulmonary hypertension.

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Short-Acting Beta2-Agonists (SABAs)

A first-line treatment for acute asthma attacks which works by relaxing the muscles surrounding the airways, opening them up.

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Scleroderma and Pericardial Fibrosis

Scleroderma can cause pericardial fibrosis, affecting the heart.

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Inhaled Corticosteroids (ICSs)

A long-term medication used to prevent asthma attacks, which works by reducing inflammation in the airways. It is used for frequent asthma episodes to prevent attacks.

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Long-Acting Beta2-Agonists (LABAs)

A medication used for long-term asthma management, especially when ICSs are not enough. It works by relaxing the muscles surrounding the airways and improving long-term control.

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Oral Prednisone

Often used as a last resort for outpatient asthma management, this medication is a potent anti-inflammatory that helps control inflammation in the airways.

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Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency

A condition that increases the risk of early-onset emphysema and cirrhosis. It's characterized by a deficiency in alpha-1 antitrypsin, a protein that protects the lungs from damage.

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Cough-Variant Asthma

A type of asthma that presents with only a dry cough, without difficulty breathing. It's often worse in the winter and may be part of a larger allergic pattern.

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Samter Triad

A group of symptoms related to allergies, including asthma, nasal polyps, and aspirin sensitivity.

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Asthma

An inflammatory lung disease characterized by recurrent bronchospasms, often triggered by allergens, cold air, or irritants.

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Aspirin-Induced Asthma Mechanism

The mechanism of aspirin-induced asthma. Aspirin inhibits COX, redirecting arachidonic acid to the lipoxygenase pathway, causing increased leukotrienes and bronchoconstriction.

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Increased Expiratory Phase in Asthma

A hallmark of obstructive lung diseases like asthma, where exhaling takes longer than normal due to airway narrowing. This leads to a reduction in forced expiratory volume (FEV1).

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Blood Gases in Acute Asthma

The characteristic blood gas profile during an acute asthma attack. This is due to rapid respiratory alkalosis, caused by increased respiratory rate and CO2 elimination.

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Blood Gases in COPD

The characteristic blood gas profile in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This is due to chronic hypoventilation, which causes CO2 retention and respiratory acidosis.

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Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (Kartagener Syndrome)

A genetic disorder characterized by impaired cilia function due to defective dynein arms, resulting in recurrent respiratory infections, situs inversus, and reduced sperm motility.

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Dynein

A protein essential for ciliary movement. Defects in dynein are a key feature of Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia.

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Cilia Microtubule Configuration

A 9x2 configuration of microtubules within cilia, where 9 doublets of microtubules surround two single microtubules.

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Primary Pulmonary Hypertension (PPH)

Pulmonary hypertension that originates within the lung tissue, often due to mutations in the BMPR2 gene.

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BMPR2 Gene Mutation

A genetic mutation, typically in the BMPR2 gene, that contributes to the development of primary pulmonary hypertension.

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Cor Pulmonale

Right ventricular hypertrophy and/or dysfunction caused by pulmonary hypertension.

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Situs Inversus

A condition characterized by the heart and other internal organs being on the opposite side of the body.

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Dextrocardia

A condition where the heart is located on the right side of the chest.

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Pleurodesis

A procedure that involves injecting talc into the pleural space to intentionally create scarring and prevent recurrent pneumothoraces.

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Pneumothorax

Air in the pleural space, often caused by trauma or rupture of a lung bleb. On physical exam, expect decreased breath sounds and hyperresonant percussion.

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Pleural Effusion

Fluid in the pleural space, often caused by heart failure, pneumonia, or cancer. On physical exam, expect decreased breath sounds and dullness to percussion.

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Meigs Syndrome

A rare syndrome characterized by an ovarian fibroma, ascites (abdominal fluid), and right-sided pleural effusion.

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Caisson Disease ('The Bends')

Refers to a condition where nitrogen bubbles form in the blood, typically due to rapid ascent from underwater, causing joint pain and neurological symptoms.

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What is sarcoidosis?

A chronic inflammatory condition characterized by the formation of non-caseating granulomas in various organs, most commonly the lungs.

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What are epithelioid macrophages?

Macrophages that are activated in response to inflammation and are a key component of granulomas in sarcoidosis. They are also called histiocytes.

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What is 1,25-(OH)2-D3 (calcitriol)?

A specific type of vitamin D that is produced by the body and plays a crucial role in calcium absorption. Its levels are often elevated in sarcoidosis due to the increased activity of 1α-hydroxylase.

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What is hypercalcemia?

This condition is characterized by elevated levels of calcium in the blood.

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What is parathyroid hormone (PTH)?

The hormone that plays a key role in regulating calcium levels in the blood. It is often suppressed in sarcoidosis because of the high levels of calcium caused by the disease.

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What is the typical presentation of sarcoidosis?

A classic presentation of sarcoidosis involving a dry cough and red nodules on the shins.

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What is a chest X-ray (CXR) or CT scan?

An imaging technique commonly used to assess the presence of enlarged lymph nodes in the chest. It is often used in sarcoidosis to evaluate the hilar lymph nodes.

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What is hilar lymphadenopathy?

This condition is characterized by the enlargement of lymph nodes in the area of the lungs where the major bronchi enter. It is a common finding in sarcoidosis.

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Study Notes

Asthma

  • USMLE Qs may present patients with a history of smoking or alcohol use. Early-onset emphysema and cirrhosis can be associated with these behaviors. Typically COPD requires greater than 20+ years of smoking.
  • Bronchospasm can be idiopathic, hereditary, or triggered by allergens or cold air.
  • Cough-variant asthma presents primarily with a dry cough, often worse in winter. This is present in one-third of asthma patients.
  • Atopy constellation can include dry cough in winter, seasonal allergies (seasonal allergic rhinitis and/or conjunctivitis), urticaria or skin rashes, and/or eczema, which can co-occur with asthma.
  • Aspirin-induced asthma is caused by aspirin inhibiting COX, leading to increased leukotrienes which result in bronchoconstriction.
  • Samter triad encompasses aspirin allergy, asthma, and nasal polyps.
  • Increased expiratory phase is a common term in asthma vignettes characterized by an increased time for exhalation. This is seen in obstructive lung diseases.
  • Acute asthma causes decreased COâ‚‚, increased pH, and unchanged bicarbonate, leading to respiratory alkalosis. This is because COâ‚‚ diffuses quickly.
  • Transition to type II respiratory failure in acute asthma may occur when COâ‚‚ and pH rebound to normal levels despite low Oâ‚‚. This signifies a transition towards hypoventilation.
  • Spirometry is the best initial step in diagnosing asthma in a patient experiencing acute episodes. The expiratory curve is concave in asthma.
  • Methacholine challenge can also diagnose asthma. This muscarinic agonist is given to trigger bronchoconstriction and symptoms. It is not given during an acute asthma attack.
  • Initial outpatient asthma management includes β2-agonists (like albuterol) for acute attacks, and inhaled corticosteroids for chronic, weekly or more episodes.
  • Management for severe asthma attacks involves nebulized albuterol, oxygen, and intravenous methylprednisolone in a hospital setting. Inhaled corticosteroids should be administered at discharge if the patient is not currently on them. A specific USMLE Q will state this.
  • Inhaled fluticasone may be initiated at discharge, regardless of current therapy, for hospitalised and chronic patients.

Bronchiectasis

  • A common cause worldwide is tuberculosis (TB), and in western countries it is cystic fibrosis (CF), and occasionally, smoking.
  • Presentation often involves a large volume of foul-smelling (anaerobic) sputum.
  • Clubbing of the fingers is not mandatory, but USMLE frequently associates it with bronchiectasis.
  • A 2CK Q may present a child with right middle lobe syndrome, scant white sputum, and a linear opacity, where bronchiectasis would be the answer

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Description

This quiz covers key concepts related to asthma, including types, triggers, and associations commonly tested in the USMLE. Topics include bronchospasm, cough-variant asthma, and the Samter triad. Enhance your understanding of asthma's clinical presentation and its implications for patient management.

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