why
This inflammatory cell type prediminates in COPD, releasing proteases that contribute to alveolar destruction.
What are neutrophils
Smoking tobacco causes incremental damage to the parenchyma of the lungs
What is the biggest risk factor for COPD
This condition results in the alveolar sacs destruction, permanently reducing lung capacity and ease of breathing
What is COPD
This harmful habit is the most common cause of COPD
What is smoking
Women on average have smaller airways than men resulting in this.
What is a larger risk for COPD
Alongside emphysema, this is the other major condition caused by COPD
What is chronic bronchitis
This type of lung is a common sight on patient XRAYs with COPD
What is a hyperinflated lung
Impaired lung development due to these diseases before the age of 2 can vastly increase the risk of COPD, name 2 of these conditions
What are RSV, pneumonia, Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), or chronic neonatal lung disease
This long term untreated condition can lead to COPD
What is Asthma?
This finding on spirometry confirms persistent airflow limitation and distinguishes COPD from fully reversible conditions.
What is post-bronchodilator FEV₁/FVC < 0.7
The only genetic risk factor for COPD
What is alpha 1 antitrypsin deficiency
These are the two distinct aetiology for COPD, that differ for both emphysema and chronic bronchitis
Emphysema is structural damage (destruction of the alveolar sacs) and chronic bronchitis is caused by chronic inflammation and mucus production in the airways