Emphysema

Emphysema is irreversible enlargement of airspaces distal to terminal bronchioles with alveolar wall destruction, usually smoking-related, causing dyspnea, hyperinflation, reduced DLCO, and cough. Types: centrilobular (upper-lobe, smoking), panlobular (lower-lobe, A1AT deficiency), paraseptal. Treatment: smoking cessation; inhaled bronchodilators (LAMA/LABA); pulmonary rehab; oxygen for resting hypoxemia; treat exacerbations; vaccines; lung-volume-reduction surgery/endobronchial valves in selected; lung transplant in end-stage; A1AT replacement if deficient.

Common Symptoms

Dyspnea on exertion; hyperinflation; pursed-lip breathing; by centrilobular/panlobular/paraseptal

Causes and Pathogenesis

Smoking/A1AT deficiency causes alveolar wall destruction via protease-antiprotease imbalance.

Treatment

Smoking cessation; bronchodilators; rehab; oxygen; treat exacerbations; surgery/transplant in selected

Preventive Measures

Smoking cessation; A1AT screening; avoid irritants.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Pulmonology/Thoracic-surgery department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.