Obstructive Emphysema

Obstructive emphysema is irreversible airflow limitation due to alveolar wall destruction and air trapping, part of COPD, presenting with progressive dyspnea, hyperinflation, reduced FEV1/FVC, and reduced DLCO. Treatment: smoking cessation; inhaled bronchodilators (LAMA/LABA, SABA rescue); inhaled corticosteroids in selected (frequent exacerbations/eosinophilia); pulmonary rehab; oxygen for resting hypoxemia; treat exacerbations (antibiotics/steroids/oxygen); vaccines (flu/pneumococcal); lung-volume-reduction/transplant in end-stage; treat comorbidities.

Common Symptoms

Progressive dyspnea; hyperinflation; wheeze; reduced FEV1/FVC/DLCO; smoking history

Causes and Pathogenesis

Smoking/irritants cause alveolar wall destruction, air trapping, and expiratory airflow limitation.

Treatment

Smoking cessation; bronchodilators; ICS in selected; rehab; oxygen; treat exacerbations; surgery/transplant end-stage

Preventive Measures

Smoking cessation; flu/pneumococcal vaccine; 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.