Question

Asthma may be attributed to

• A. Allergic reaction of the mast cells in the lungs
• B. Bacterial infection of the lungs
• C. Accumulation of fluid in the lungs
• D. Inflammation of the trachea

Answer 1

The correct option is A Allergic reaction of the mast cells in the lungs

Asthma :
Asthma is a type of allergic reaction in which the tissues around the respiratory tubes (bronchioles) swells and compresses them. This causes difficulty in breathing. Mast cells contribute to such allergic reactions.

Tracheobronchitis :
Inflammation of the trachea and bronchi is called tracheobronchitis. It is caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Hence the given statement in option ‘A’ is applicable to tracheobronchitis.

Pulmonary edema :
Pulmonary edema is a condition due to the accumulation of fluid in the lungs. This fluid gets collected in the numerous air sacs in the lungs, making it difficult to breathe. It occurs due to heart problems. Hence the given statement in option ‘B’ is applicable to pulmonary edema.

Pneumonia :
Pneumonia is a bacterial disease caused by $Streptococcuspneumoniae$ (Pneumococcus) or $Haemophilusinfluenzae$. Pneumonia is characterised with accumulation of fluid or pus in the lungs. The pus develops as a result of inflammatory responses against pathogens that attack and destroy the alveoli in the lungs. This results in difficulty in breathing and other symptoms such as cough, fever, chills etc. Hence the given statement in option ‘C’ is applicable to pneumonia.

Final answer :
(d) Allergic reaction of the mast cells in the lungs