Croup - AnswersAcute respiratory condition found in infants and children that is characterized
by a brking typ of cough or stridor
Diphtheria - AnswersBacterial upper respiratory infection characterized by the formation of a
thick membranous film across the throat and a high mortality rate. Rare now due to the DPT
(diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus) vaccine.
Pertussis - AnswersCommonly called whooping cough, due to the whoop sound made when
coughin. An infectious bacterial disease of the upper respiratory system that children receive
immunization against as part of their DPT shots.
Asthma - AnswersDisease caused by various conditions, like allergens, and resulting in
constriction of the bronchial airways, dyspnea, coughing, and wheezing. Can cause violent
spasms of the bronchi (bronchospasms) but is generally not a life-threatening condition.
Bronchiectasis - AnswersThe abnormal enlargement of bronchi; may be the result of a lung
infection. This condition can be irreversible and result in destruction of the bronchial walls.
Bronchogenic carcinoma - AnswersMalignant tumor iriginating in the bronchi. Usually
associated with a history of cigarette smoking.
Adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) - AnswersAcute respiratory failure in adults
characterized by tachypnea, dyspnea, cyanosis, tachycardia, and hypoxemia. Also called acute
respiratory distress syndrome.
Anthracosis - AnswersA type of pneumoconiosis that develops from the collection of coal dust
in the lung. Also called balck lung or miner's lung.
Asbestosis - AnswersA type of pneumoconiosis that develops from collection of asbestos fibers
in the lungs. May lead to the development of lung cancer.
Atelectasis - AnswersCondition in which the alveoli in a portion of the lung collapse, preventing
the respiratory exchange or oxygen and carbon dioxide. Can be caused by a variety of
conditions, including pressure on the lung from a tumor or other object. Also used to describe
the failure of a newborn's lungs to expand.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) - AnswersProgressive, chronic, and usually
irreversible group of conditions, lie emphysema, in which the lungs have a diminished capacity
for inspiration (inhalation) and expiration (exhalation) The person may have dyspnea upon
exertion and a cough