by Beatrice Gunther (Editor)
The lungs can be affected adversely by exposure to toxins and infectious agents. Some individuals may have hereditary diseases which affect the lungs such as cystic fibrosis or alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency. There can also be a constitutional or genetic predisposition towards lung conditions like pulmonary hypertension or pulmonary fibrosis. The field of pulmonology is concerned with the diagnosis and management of pulmonary diseases. It is also involved in the management of patient's requiring mechanical ventilation and life support. Interventional pulmonology is an emerging specialty within pulmonary medicine which employs procedures like pleuroscopy and bronchoscopy for the treatment of pulmonary diseases. While lung conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can be treated with inhalers, oxygen therapy and mechanical ventilation are required in cases of severe respiratory disease. From theories to research, case studies related to all contemporary topics of relevance to pulmonology have been included in this book. The topics covered herein deal with diverse pulmonology diseases and disorders. This book is meant for students who are looking for an elaborate reference text on pulmonology.