ASTHMABy: Mohammed A. Alquwaizani

Asthma : Current Understanding of the Disease, and a Summary of the Harlem Children’s Zone Asthma Initiative

Descriptions of Asthma Asthma: ancient Greek for “panting” Asthma: ancient Greek for “panting” Definition: a narrowing of the airways in the lungs that causes coughing, wheezing, and gasping for breath. Definition: a narrowing of the airways in the lungs that causes coughing, wheezing, and gasping for breath. Pathology: airflow obstruction, airway hyper- responsiveness, and airway inflammation. Pathology: airflow obstruction, airway hyper- responsiveness, and airway inflammation.

The Respiratory System

Airways: Trachea and Bronchial Tubes

Gas Exchange Region: Bronchioles and Alveoli

Airway Inflammation and Smooth Muscle Reactivity

Asthma Triggers: Viral/Bacterial infections Chemical irritants: industrial, household Air pollution: CO, ozone Tobacco smoke Dust mite/cockroach allergens Animal dander, urine Exercise, cold air, emotion, stress Inflammation Airway Hyper-responsiveness Airflow Obstruction Asthma Symptoms

Model of an Inflammatory Response Leading to Asthma Phase 1. Sensitization of immune system Repeated exposures to an allergen Production of allergic antiboidies (IgE’s) by immune system Phase 2. Immediate hypersensitivity to subsequent exposures IgE’s recognize and bind to allergens Immune cells to release inflammatory chemicals (Histamine, etc.) Inflammatory chemicals cause: Constriction of airway smooth muscleConstriction of airway smooth muscle Secretion of mucous from glands in airway wallSecretion of mucous from glands in airway wall Fluid leakage (edema) in airway wallsFluid leakage (edema) in airway walls

Pathology of Asthma Click on the picture

Pathology of Asthma Click on the picture