Managing Refractory MAC Pulmonary Disease
Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) pulmonary disease is a challenging condition to treat, particularly when standard therapies fail. When patients continue to test positive for MAC despite undergoing treatment, the disease is considered refractory. Here we will explore what refractory MAC pulmonary disease is, how it’s diagnosed, and the steps that can be taken to try…
Understanding and Managing the Treatment Burden in Bronchiectasis
Managing bronchiectasis can be highly burdensome, affecting both physical and mental health. Here we explore the treatment burden in bronchiectasis and provides practical strategies to cope with the challenges it poses. The Challenge of Treatment Burden in Bronchiectasis Daily Management and Routine People with bronchiectasis often endure a complex daily routine of medications, physical therapy,…
Bronchiectasis Consultation: Key Symptoms and Essential Information for Your Doctor
Bronchiectasis is a chronic respiratory disease where the airways widen abnormally, trapping mucus and causing persistent infections. Recognising symptoms early and discussing them accurately with your doctor is crucial for effective management. This article will explore the essential information that you have to let your doctor know when having a bronchiectasis consultation with your specialist….
Unraveling the Intricacies of Graft-Versus-Host Disease (GvHD)
Graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) is a complex medical condition that follows stem cell transplantation. When the newly introduced immune system turns against the host’s cells, it leads to GvHD. This occurrence can assume various forms, such as acute, chronic, progressive, or overlap, each exhibiting different severity levels. A myriad of organs, including the skin, gut, mouth,…
Nebulised Antibiotics in Non-CF Bronchiectasis
Bronchiectasis, a chronic lung condition characterised by widened and damaged airways, can be a challenging beast to tame. But here’s a ray of hope – nebulised antibiotics. They’ve emerged as a game-changer, especially for those with non-cystic fibrosis (non-CF) bronchiectasis. This article looks into the world of nebulised antibiotics like Colomycin, Gentamicin, Aztreonam, Tobramycin, and…
Non-Tuberculous Mycobacterial infection: When to Treat?
As an expert in pulmonary infections, Dr Ricardo Jose, frequently encounter queries about Mycobacterium other than Tuberculosis, also known as Non-tuberculous mycobacterium (NTM). Non-Tuberculous Mycobacterial infections can be quite puzzling, not only for patients but also for other healthcare professionals. Let’s look at understanding when to treat these pulmonary infections, balancing the fine line between…
The Breath Behind the Ache: Rheumatoid Arthritis and the Lungs
Pathophysiology: When RA Decides to Play in the Lung Field Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is notorious for wreaking havoc on our joints. But it’s not restricted to just the joints; the pathophysiology can have implications on our lungs too. Rheumatoid Arthritis and Lung Disease: A Chicken or the Egg Dilemma Interestingly, the relationship between rheumatoid arthritis…
Introduction to Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (PCD)
What is PCD? Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (PCD) is a rare congenital condition, primarily characterised by dysfunction in the cilia, the tiny hair-like structures that line our respiratory tract. These cilia serve as essential movers, propelling mucus and foreign particles out of our respiratory passages. Imagine a conveyor belt system in a large factory—when it breaks…
Demystifying Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis
Introduction Ever heard of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis? It’s a mouthful, isn’t it? But don’t let its long, scientific name throw you off! This condition is as intriguing as it is mysterious, and it’s high time we shed some light on it. What is Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis? Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, or let’s just call it ABPA…