Modul 4 1 Diskusi kuliah adenoid, influenza, KNF

Summary

The transcript discusses various medical questions and answers related to ear, nose, and throat (ENT) issues. Topics include bacterial vs. viral infections, the function and surgery of tonsils, mouth breathing in children, diagnosing and treating throat cancer, the role of the EBV virus, nasal irrigation, complications of influenza, and the non-contagious nature of chronic sinusitis. The discussion emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis, proper treatment, and patient education, with an academic focus on ENT anatomy, pathology, and patient care procedures. It also highlights resources for further study and offers practical insights for medical students.

Takeaways

• 😀 Bacterial infections can worsen after viral infections, but viral infections cannot become bacterial infections, only worsening into an acute exacerbation.
• 😀 Tonsillectomy (removal of tonsils) is not necessary for all cases. It should only be performed when tonsils become chronically infected or cause significant issues such as breathing or swallowing difficulties.
• 😀 Mouth breathing in children due to nasal obstruction (e.g., enlarged adenoids) can lead to structural changes in the mouth and face, causing aesthetic and health concerns.
• 😀 The diagnosis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) requires a biopsy, as symptoms alone are not enough for a definitive diagnosis. Biopsy procedures should be done by a trained doctor using a nasopharyngoscope.
• 😀 Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) is a known predispositional factor for nasopharyngeal carcinoma, but it is not a singular cause. Interaction with other factors is needed for the development of cancer.
• 😀 Nasal irrigation (nasal lavage) can be performed by patients at home to relieve nasal congestion, using sterile saline solution. Proper education on how to do it correctly is important to avoid choking or discomfort.
• 😀 Influenza virus can have more severe symptoms compared to common viral rhinitis, and complications like pneumonia or respiratory failure can lead to higher mortality rates in certain populations.
• 😀 Inflammation of the nasal and sinus passages (rhinusinusitis) may not directly be contagious, but viral infections like the flu or COVID-19 can spread through respiratory droplets.
• 😀 Children’s tonsils play an essential role in immune defense, especially under the age of 6. However, as a person grows, other immune system components take over, and the tonsils become less critical in immunity.
• 😀 Sinusitis is not directly contagious unless caused by a viral infection. Chronic sinusitis, especially non-viral types, is typically not transmitted between individuals.

Q & A

What is the difference between bacterial and viral infections in terms of severity?

Bacterial infections are generally considered more severe than viral infections, especially in cases like acute bacterial rhinitis, which is more serious than acute viral rhinitis. However, the severity depends on the individual's health condition.

Can a bacterial infection turn into a viral infection, or vice versa?

A bacterial infection cannot directly turn into a viral infection. However, a viral infection can lead to bacterial complications, causing acute exacerbations. For instance, chronic bacterial conditions can worsen with a viral infection.

Do all cases of tonsil infections require surgery?

No, only cases of chronic tonsil infections that lead to complications such as obstructed airways or chronic ear infections require surgery, known as tonsillectomy. Surgery is not necessary for all cases.

What is the role of the tonsils in the immune system?

The tonsils play an important role in defending the body against infections, particularly in children up to six years old. However, as the immune system matures, other defense mechanisms take over, reducing reliance on the tonsils.

What are the effects of chronic mouth breathing in children?

Chronic mouth breathing can cause changes in facial structure, such as a more recessed maxilla and a sunken palate. It can also impact both aesthetics and health, leading to potential issues with airway obstruction and eating.

Is it safe for patients to perform nasal irrigation at home?

Yes, nasal irrigation can be safely done at home. The procedure involves using a saline solution to clear nasal passages. Proper education and demonstration are essential for effective and safe practice.

How is the diagnosis of pharyngeal carcinoma made?

Pharyngeal carcinoma diagnosis requires a biopsy, which is analyzed by pathologists. Symptoms may raise suspicion, but a biopsy is the only definitive method for diagnosis.

How does the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) contribute to the development of pharyngeal carcinoma?

EBV is one of the factors that predisposes individuals to pharyngeal carcinoma, but it does not directly cause it. There are other contributing factors, and EBV's role is one of many in the complex pathogenesis of this cancer.

What are the key signs that doctors should look for when screening for pharyngeal carcinoma?

Doctors should screen for five key signs: ear, nose, eye, neck, and intracranial symptoms. If any of these signs are present, further testing, such as a biopsy, should be conducted.

Does sinusitis spread from person to person?

Sinusitis itself is not contagious, but if it is caused by a viral infection, like the flu or cold, those viruses can spread to others through droplets. Chronic sinusitis is rarely contagious.