Cystic Fibrosis

Bronchiectasis can develop from chronic lung diseases or pulmonary infectious diseases. Since it is irreversible, it is most important to diagnose it timely. Only then, it is possible to prevent it from progressing by implementing appropriate measures. This article will introduce you to the pathophysiological and etiological basics of bronchiectasis, and will prepare you for the treatment of affected patients.

Mucoviscidosis or Cystic Fibrosis is the most common congenital and early lethal metabolic disease in Europe. Only if diagnosed early do those affected stand a chance of living beyond young age. The following article summarizes all the facts on formation, diagnosis, therapy and prognosis of mucoviscidosis. This will prepare you comprehensively for clinical exams, practical trainings and your final exam.

Hemoptysis can be defined as the expectoration of blood during coughing that originates from the lower respiratory tract. Per this definition, coughing of blood from an upper respiratory tract illness can be excluded. While coughing blood can be alarming to the patient, it is usually a self-limiting symptom. In clinical practice, only 5% of the patients who present with hemoptysis are found to have a serious medical condition that needs further treatment.

Pediatric respiratory disease related to congenital and genetic etiologies are important topics found on the USMLE. Congenital disease to be aware of include Diaphragmatic hernias, congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation, surfactant deficiency, pediatric pulmonary hypoplasia, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Genetic disease to be aware of include cystic fibrosis, alpha 1 antitrypsin, and primary ciliary dyskinesia.

This article should provide an overview of the main type of diseases that affect the lung. You will find a description of the important diagnostic tests used for investigating respiratory diseases, like general principles, emphasis on lung function testing role and interpretation and examples of diagnostic testing approach for some common presentations.