About this Research Topic
Mammals have evolved a complex system for distributing air to the huge surface area created by the alveoli and respiratory zone of the lungs. This involves a distinct thoracic cavity and its associated muscles, including the diaphragm, which drive air into and out of the respiratory zone through the upper airway and a branching structure of lower airways. This system is able to cope with a wide range of demands through a number of control systems.
This topic covers disorders of this system including congenital and acquired abnormalities of the chest wall, airways disorders and the control of breathing.
Disorders affecting the effectiveness of breathing )moving air to and from the respiratory zone) range from the common to the very rare. They give rise to a limited range of symptoms and hence can be difficult to diagnose effectively. Therapy is also challenging in many cases due to relatively poor understanding of the mechanisms.
This topic explores the range of conditions, challenges long held beliefs and provides guidance for those who wish to improve their management of patients with many of these conditions.
Topics to be covered include disorders of the mechanisms that generate the forces necessary to move air into and out of the respiratory zone (including chest wall abnormalities and dysfunctional breathing) conditions increasing resistance to airflow (such as asthma, pVCD, chronic bronchiolitis) and those driving cough and sputum production (such as PBB/chronic bronchitis).
This topic covers disorders of this system including congenital and acquired abnormalities of the chest wall, airways disorders and the control of breathing.
Disorders affecting the effectiveness of breathing )moving air to and from the respiratory zone) range from the common to the very rare. They give rise to a limited range of symptoms and hence can be difficult to diagnose effectively. Therapy is also challenging in many cases due to relatively poor understanding of the mechanisms.
This topic explores the range of conditions, challenges long held beliefs and provides guidance for those who wish to improve their management of patients with many of these conditions.
Topics to be covered include disorders of the mechanisms that generate the forces necessary to move air into and out of the respiratory zone (including chest wall abnormalities and dysfunctional breathing) conditions increasing resistance to airflow (such as asthma, pVCD, chronic bronchiolitis) and those driving cough and sputum production (such as PBB/chronic bronchitis).
Keywords: Airways disease (congenital and acquired), Chest wall, Breathing disorders
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