Read more about the article Chest X-Ray
A normal CXR in a healthy young male. In particular note the normal markings, clear costophrenic angles, and clear lung fields. There is quite a large gastric bubble, but this is not considered pathologic.

Chest X-Ray

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Introduction The chest x-ray (also known as CXR or Chest Radiograph) is probably the most commonly performed medical imaging procedure. An x-ray can typically discern 4 different densities: Air (black) Metal - i.e.…

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Read more about the article COPD
X-ray of patient with COPD during an acute exacerbation. Note the flattened diaphragm (sign of chronic COPD), and the patchy consolidation the right lung - indicative of an infective exacerbation

COPD

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Introduction Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a chronic respiratory condition characterised by airflow obstruction, most commonly the result of a combination chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Bronchitis - Cough and sputum production on…

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Read more about the article Cromones
Drugs in medicine

Cromones

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Cromones – e.g.Sodium cromoglicate, nedocromil sodium This is often described as a mast cell stabilizer. It prevents the release of inflammatory mediators (such as histamine) from mast cells. These drugs…

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Read more about the article CURB-65 Score
Scoring systemis in medicine

CURB-65 Score

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CURB-65 The severity of community-acquired pneumonia can be assessed by using the CURB-65 score (1 point for each): Confusion Urea >7mmol/L Respiratory rate ≥ 30/min BP < 90 systolic and/or 60mmHg…

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Read more about the article Cystic Fibrosis (CF)
Signs and symptoms of cystic fibrosis

Cystic Fibrosis (CF)

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Introduction Cystic fibrosis is the most common life-limiting inherited disease in Caucasians. It is caused by a genetic mutation that alters mucus production, resulting in a more viscous solution. It…

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Read more about the article Inhaled Corticosteroids
Examples of various preparations of fluticasone (a commonly prescribed inhaled corticosteroid). Left: Cylindrical dry powder inhaler. Centre: Pressurised, propellant based CFC-free inhaler. Right: Circular dry powder inhaler.

Inhaled Corticosteroids

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Introduction Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are used for their anti-inflammatory effects in asthma and COPD. They are available as single agents, or in combination with other inhaled medications, such as beta-agonists…

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Read more about the article Inhalers
aerosol based metered-dose inhaler

Inhalers

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There are loads of types of inhalers! You need to be able to tell a patient how to use each type, and what type of drugs can go in each…

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Read more about the article Inserting a Chest Drain
The Safe Triangle for chest drain insertion

Inserting a Chest Drain

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The Safe Triangle The safe triangle is an anatomical space created by: Mid-axillary line / boarder of latissimus dorsi Lateral boarder of pec major Imaginary horizontal line from the nipple…

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Read more about the article Interstitial Lung Disease and Pulmonary Fibrosis
CT scan showing pulmonary fibrosis. Note that lung tissue enhances more than healthy lung tissue would do. Also note that there is also an emphysematous bull in the right lung (bottom left of image).

Interstitial Lung Disease and Pulmonary Fibrosis

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Introduction Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) affect the lung interstitium, i.e. the space between the alveolar epithelium and the capillary endothelium, causing inflammation and fibrosis. The two main types of interstitial…

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