Thorax
-
Human beta-defensin (HBD)-1 and -2 are antimicrobial peptides present in the respiratory tract. Recent reports have indicated reduced activity of beta-defensins in cystic fibrosis, suggesting that beta-defensins may play an important role in the pathological process of chronic respiratory tract infection. Diffuse panbronchiolitis (DPB) is a progressive disease characterised by frequent episodes of superimposed infection, typically caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The aim of this study was to elucidate the role of these antimicrobial peptides in this disease. ⋯ These results indicate that beta-defensins, particularly HBD-2, participate in antimicrobial defence in the respiratory tract in DPB, and that the BAL fluid concentration of HBD-2 may be a useful marker of airway inflammation in patients with DPB.
-
Practice Guideline Guideline
BTS guidelines for the management of malignant pleural effusions.
-
Chronic cough is a common condition which has a significant impact on quality of life. Assessment and management are hampered by the absence of well validated outcome measures. The development and validation of the Leicester Cough Questionnaire (LCQ), a self-completed health related quality of life measure of chronic cough, is presented. ⋯ The LCQ is a valid, repeatable 19 item self-completed quality of life measure of chronic cough which is responsive to change. It should be a useful tool in clinical trials and longitudinal studies.
-
Review Case Reports
The pulmonary physician in critical care. Illustrative case 2: interstitial lung disease.
The case history of a patient admitted to the ICU with interstitial lung disease deteriorating to respiratory failure is presented. Problems in distinguishing between infection and disease progression are discussed and the role of transplantation in ventilated patients is examined.
-
There are very few data on normal ciliary beat frequency, beat pattern, and ultrastructure in healthy children and adults. A study was undertaken to define ciliary structure, beat frequency and beat pattern in a healthy paediatric and young adult population. ⋯ Normal age related reference ranges have been established for ciliary structure and beat frequency. In a healthy population localised epithelial damage may be present causing areas of ciliary dyskinesia.