Question

Which of the following is an inherited condition characterized by the production of abnormally thick mucus that can interfere with air flow within the lungs? a. asthma b. emphysema c. cystic fibrosis d. congestive heart failure

Short answer

c. cystic fibrosis

Step-by-step solution

- Understanding the Conditions

Start by understanding the characteristics of each condition listed: asthma, emphysema, cystic fibrosis, and congestive heart failure. Focus on identifying which condition involves abnormal mucus production.

- Asthma

Asthma is a chronic condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways in the lungs, but it does not specifically involve the production of abnormally thick mucus.

- Emphysema

Emphysema is a lung condition that involves damage to the air sacs in the lungs. It primarily affects the elasticity of the lungs but does not involve abnormal mucus production.

- Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic Fibrosis is a genetic disorder that leads to the production of abnormally thick and sticky mucus, which can obstruct airways and cause breathing problems.

- Congestive Heart Failure

Congestive heart failure is a condition where the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, but it does not involve thick mucus production in the lungs.

- Identify the Correct Answer

Based on the characteristics of each condition, the inherited condition associated with the production of abnormally thick mucus that can interfere with air flow in the lungs is cystic fibrosis.

Key concepts

genetic disorders

Cystic fibrosis is a classic example of a genetic disorder. Genetic disorders are caused by abnormalities in an individual's DNA. In the case of cystic fibrosis, it is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. This means that for a person to develop the condition, they must inherit two faulty copies of the CFTR gene - one from each parent. If they inherit only one faulty gene, they are considered carriers and generally do not show symptoms.
Genes carry the instructions for creating proteins, which are essential for various bodily functions. The CFTR gene provides instructions for making a protein that regulates the movement of salt and water in and out of cells. In cystic fibrosis, mutations in the CFTR gene lead to malfunctioning or absent CFTR protein, causing the thick, sticky mucus characteristic of the disease. The malfunction results in various health issues, particularly in the lungs and digestive system.

• Autosomal recessive inheritance: Both parents must be carriers of the defective gene for their child to be affected.
• Mutation in CFTR gene: Causes defective or absent CFTR protein.
• Symptoms: Mainly affect the respiratory and digestive systems.

Understanding the genetic basis of cystic fibrosis is essential for comprehending how the disorder develops and progresses.

respiratory conditions

Respiratory conditions affect the lungs and other parts of the respiratory system. Cystic fibrosis, asthma, and emphysema are examples of such conditions, but they differ significantly in their causes and symptoms. In cystic fibrosis, the abnormal mucus production leads to clogged airways, making breathing difficult. This thick mucus provides a breeding ground for bacteria, resulting in frequent lung infections.
Asthma is characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, triggered by allergens or irritants, leading to wheezing and shortness of breath. Emphysema involves the destruction of the air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs, causing shortness of breath and reduced oxygen exchange. Each condition requires different treatment approaches:

• Cystic fibrosis: Involves managing mucus production and preventing infections through various medications and therapies.
• Asthma: Typically managed with inhalers that reduce inflammation and open airways.
• Emphysema: Often requires supplemental oxygen and medications to improve airflow and reduce symptoms.

Understanding the distinctions between these respiratory conditions is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

mucus production

Mucus plays an essential role in the respiratory system by trapping dust, bacteria, and other small particles, preventing them from entering the lungs. However, in cystic fibrosis, the mucus produced is much thicker and stickier than normal. This abnormal mucus can obstruct the airways, making it difficult to breathe and leading to recurrent lung infections.
The defective CFTR protein in cystic fibrosis affects the salt and water balance in cells, causing the mucus to become thick. This thick mucus is not just limited to the lungs; it can also affect other organs such as the pancreas, leading to digestive problems. Regular therapies help manage mucus production in cystic fibrosis, including chest physiotherapy, inhaled medications, and sometimes, enzyme supplements to aid digestion.

• Normal mucus: Traps particles and protects the lungs.
• Thick mucus: In cystic fibrosis, obstructs airways and causes infections.
• Management: Includes therapies to clear mucus and medications to thin it.

Understanding the role of mucus and how its abnormal production affects the body is key to managing cystic fibrosis effectively.