Respiration; international review of thoracic diseases
-
Comparative Study
Acute and chronic effects of smoking on inflammation markers in exhaled breath condensate in current smokers.
Long-term cigarette smoking is associated with pulmonary inflammation, but the acute effects of smoking have been less well studied. Analysis of the exhaled breath condensate (EBC) can provide noninvasive markers that might be indicative of inflammation. ⋯ EBC can be used to detect the acute and chronic effects of smoking. The increased conductivity of EBC after smoking suggests acute inflammatory effects. The reduced pH in chronic smokers shows cigarette-induced inflammation.
-
Comparative Study Clinical Trial
Comparison of suction catheter versus forceps biopsy for sampling of solitary pulmonary nodules guided by electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy.
Electromagnetic navigation has been approved for use as an adjunct to standard bronchoscopy. The diagnostic yield varies depending on the size of the lesion and successful navigation to the lesion. ⋯ ENB is a useful tool in the evaluation of SPN <3 cm in diameter. For malignant lesions, sampling by catheter aspiration is associated with a higher diagnostic yield than sampling by forceps biopsy alone, in particular when EBUS could not confirm lesion location prior to sampling.
-
Acute respiratory failure (ARF) occurring during idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is associated with a poor prognosis. In this subset of individuals, mechanical ventilation (MV) may be required. ⋯ MV does not appear to have a significant impact on the survival of patients with end-stage IPF. NIV may be useful for compassionate use, providing relief from dyspnoea and avoiding aggressive approaches.
-
Bronchial artery (BA) embolization (BAE) is recommended as a minimally invasive therapy for hemoptysis, though some patients recover after only conservative treatment. ⋯ Evaluation of BAs on MDCT could be useful for identifying the anatomical characteristics of bleeding-related BAs and determining whether BAE is indicated or whether conservative treatment is sufficient.
-
Few studies have addressed small airway (SA) histopathological changes and their possible role in the remodeling process in idiopathic interstitial pneumonias. ⋯ We conclude that SAs are pathologically altered and may take part in the lung-remodeling process in idiopathic interstitial pneumonias.