Terminology
Define mucus.
Secretion from goblet and submucosal glands composed of water, proteins, and mucins.
Name a classic mucolytic agent
N-Acetylcysteine (NAC).
What is the mucociliary escalator?
Major defense system for mucus clearance
What is NAC used for?
Treatment of viscous secretions and acetaminophen overdose.
What is postural drainage?
Gravity-assisted mucus clearance
What is phlegm?
Purulent material in the airways
What is the mode of action of NAC
Substitutes free thiol groups for disulfide bonds in mucin proteins
Name two diseases with mucus clearance issues
Cystic fibrosis and chronic bronchitis
List a hazard of NAC
Bronchospasm.
What is insufflation-exsufflation?
Simulated cough via pressure cycles
What is sputum?
Expectorated phlegm containing secretions, bacteria, and inflammation products
Name a DNA-targeting mucoactive drug
Dornase Alfa (Pulmozyme).
What are goblet cells?
Surface epithelial cells that produce mucus
What does Dornase Alfa target?
DNA in purulent secretions.
Define ACB and FET.
Breathing control and forced expiration techniques
Define mucolytic agent.
Agent that degrades polymers in secretions
What is the dose of Dornase Alfa
2.5 mg daily via approved nebulizer.
What affects mucociliary transport rate?
COPD, CF, narcotics, suctioning, smoke
Name a side effect of Dornase Alfa
Voice alteration.
What is autogenic drainage?
Optimized airflow to move secretions.
What is a mucospissic agent
Agent that increases viscosity of secretions
Name two expectorants
Sodium bicarbonate and guaifenesin
What is the role of cilia?
Move mucus via power and recovery strokes
What are F-actin depolymerizing drugs?
Gelsolin and Thymosin.
Name a device for oscillatory PEP
FLUTTER® or Percussionator®.