Diffuse panbronchiolitis
Diffuse Panbronchiolitis (pronounced as dih-fyoos pan-brong-kee-oh-li-tis) is a rare and chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the respiratory bronchioles, the smallest airways in the lungs.
Etymology
The term "Diffuse Panbronchiolitis" is derived from the Latin word "diffusus" meaning spread out, the Greek word "pan" meaning all, "bronchus" meaning windpipe, and "itis" indicating inflammation.
Definition
Diffuse Panbronchiolitis (DPB) is characterized by the inflammation and subsequent damage of the bronchioles, leading to severe respiratory symptoms and often progressive respiratory failure.
Symptoms
The common symptoms of DPB include chronic sinusitis, a productive cough, shortness of breath, and wheezing. In severe cases, it can lead to respiratory failure and cor pulmonale, a condition where the right side of the heart enlarges and fails due to high blood pressure in the lungs.
Causes
The exact cause of DPB is unknown, but it is believed to be associated with genetic factors and certain infections, particularly with the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of DPB is typically based on clinical symptoms, imaging studies such as CT scans, and lung function tests.
Treatment
Treatment typically involves long-term macrolide antibiotic therapy, which has been shown to significantly improve survival rates. In severe cases, lung transplantation may be considered.
Epidemiology
DPB is most common in East Asia, particularly in Japan, but it is rare in Western countries. It affects both sexes equally and usually presents in the third to fifth decade of life.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Diffuse panbronchiolitis
- Wikipedia's article - Diffuse panbronchiolitis
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