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Respiratory Disorders (Expert Forum)
Bullus Emphysema
Answered by
This forum is for questions and support regarding lung and respiratory issues such as: Allergies, Asthma, Bronchitis, Colds - Flu, Chronic Cough, COPD, Cystic Fibrosis, Emphysema, Fibrosis, Lung Abscess, Nasal Polyps, Pleurisy, Pneumonia, Sarcoidosis, Sinusitis, Tuberculosis
Bullus Emphysema
by ringbo, Jan 26, 2005 12:00AM
I have been told I have severe bullas emphysema of the right upper lung and also have bullae on the left. PFT #'s were all above 80 with the exception of fev1/fvc - 73% and fef 25-75% - 58%. Normal diffusion. Interpreted as borderline obstruction. How can I have severe emphysema and only be at the borderline stage?
Thanks,
Ringbo
Thanks,
Ringbo
Doctor's Answer
by National Jewish, Feb 14, 2005 12:00AM
, Feb 14, 2005 12:00AM
In the healthy lung the airsacs of the lung look like a bunch of grapes. Emphysema causes destruction of the walls between the airsacs. Over time these individual airsacs become one large airsac called a bullae. Usually emphysema is widespread and diffuse so bullae occur all over the lung.
The information presented suggests that you have focal emphysema. That is emphysema that is limited to a small portion of lung. You most likely have a couple of bullae that may be congenital and not a consequence of emphysema.
The pulmonary function test results are not compatible with severe emphysema. You may have mild emphysema or not have emphysema at all. Unless the bullae progressively enlarge, nothing need be done about them.
The information presented suggests that you have focal emphysema. That is emphysema that is limited to a small portion of lung. You most likely have a couple of bullae that may be congenital and not a consequence of emphysema.
The pulmonary function test results are not compatible with severe emphysema. You may have mild emphysema or not have emphysema at all. Unless the bullae progressively enlarge, nothing need be done about them.
Member Comments (1)
by b14, Apr 20, 2008 10:46PM
A related discussion, lungs was started.
