. Allergopedia

Λεξικό .. Pathophysiology of severe asthma

Pathophysiology of severe asthma

Severe asthma is characterized by the classic triad of bronchospasm, airway inflammation and edema, hypersecretion of mucus with airway plugging, and also by epithelial desquamation, decreased number and sensitivity of the beta-adrenergic receptrs, patient discomfort and anxiety, and metabolic changes. Airways obstruction results in ventilation-perfusion mismatch, atelectasis, hyperinflation, hypoxia, hypercarbia and acidemia. Beta-adrenergic subsensitivity may result from chronic use of symphathomimetic bronchodilators, rendering the airway smooth muscle less responsice. Bronchospasm may be potentiated by anxiety through vagal mediation.

References

Dollen, W.K., and Weber, R.W.: Assessment and management of acute asthma. Annals of Aller. Vol. 63:86, Aug. 1989.

Γκέλης Ν.Δ. - Λεξικό Αλλεργίας - Εκδόσεις ΒΕΛΛΕΡOΦΟΝΤΗΣ - Κόρινθος 2013

Gelis Ν.D. - Dictionary of Allergies - VELLEROFONTIS Publications - Corinth 2013