Emphysema

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Definition/Description

Definition of the disease or condition

Epidemiology

Emphysema is generally found in those less than 40 years old, and more frequently found in those of Scandinavian decent, commonly developing in the 3rd to 5th decade of a life Banasik 2001Hough 2014. The disease tends to express no signs and symptoms until 50% of lung function is lost, as a result of the airway obstructions beginning in the smaller airways Hough 2014 (Hough 2014). 1% of cases of emphysema are thought to be due to the deficiency of the alpha1-antitrypsin enzyme Haas & Haas 2000.

The statistics relating to Emphysema are usually held within the wider spectrum of COPD, causing death to more than 14 million Americans, it is thought to be the fourth leading cause of deaths in America Mattison S, Christensen M. The pathophysiology of emphysema: Considerations for critical care nursing practice. Intensive and Critical Care Nursing 2006; 22: 329-337.. Within England and Wales, 1.5 million people are said to be affected by Emphysema being within the top 5 leading causes of death Health and Safety Executive. Occupational Respiratory Diseases: Work-Related Chronic Obstructive Respiratory disease — Intervention and Evaluation Plans Draft Document. London: Health and Safety executive; 2005..

Aetiology

The exact cause of Emphysema is still yet to be distinguished, however research is suggesting the prevalence is strongly related to smoking, air pollutions and in some cases, occupation Mattison S, Christensen M. The pathophysiology of emphysema: Considerations for critical care nursing practice. Intensive and Critical Care Nursing 2006; 22: 329-337.. Another common association is the deficiency of the enzyme alpha₁-antitrypsin, which is the protein protecting the alveoli (Hough, 2014).

The prevalence of Emphysema within the smoking population is believed to increase as smoking is a major risk factor associated. It is thought to have a higher incidence in those with a lower socio-economic background, therefore affecting lifestyle and environment, resulting in the likelihood of respiratory infection Haas F, Haas SS. The Chronic Bronchitis & Emphysema Handbook. Chichester: John Wiley & Sons, Inc; 2000..

Investigations

This may well include any investigations used to gain a diagnosis or that you might need to gain information about your patient assessment.

Clinical Manifestations

Clinical manifestations (the signs and symptoms your patient may well present to you on an examination) ensure you relate this back to the underlying pathophysiology.

Physiotherapy and Other Management

Physiotherapy and other management. Other health professionals will be treating your patient. What is their input?

Prevention

Brief consideration of how this pathology could be prevented and the physiotherapy role in health promotion in relation to prevention of disease or disease progression.

Resources

add appropriate resources here

Recent Related Research (from Pubmed)

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