Anti-inflammatory action of airways -a) Fluticasoneb) Ipratropium bromidec) Budesonide d) Terbutaline
**Core Concept**
The question tests the understanding of the anti-inflammatory action of airways, specifically the role of corticosteroids and bronchodilators in asthma management. Corticosteroids are a cornerstone in the treatment of chronic inflammatory airway diseases like asthma, and their mechanism of action involves the inhibition of inflammatory cells and mediators.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer, **Fluticasone**, is a corticosteroid that exerts its anti-inflammatory effects by binding to glucocorticoid receptors in airway cells. This binding leads to the inhibition of inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-1β and TNF-α, and the induction of anti-inflammatory genes, such as IL-10. As a result, fluticasone reduces airway inflammation, edema, and hyperresponsiveness.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Fluticasone is the correct answer, so this option will be omitted.
**Option B:** Ipratropium bromide is an anticholinergic bronchodilator that works by blocking muscarinic receptors in the airways, leading to bronchodilation. While it provides symptomatic relief, it does not have anti-inflammatory effects.
**Option C:** Budesonide is another corticosteroid that shares similar anti-inflammatory properties with fluticasone. However, the question is looking for a single correct answer, and budesonide is not the most commonly used corticosteroid in asthma management.
**Option D:** Terbutaline is a short-acting β2-adrenergic receptor agonist (SABA) that provides bronchodilation and symptomatic relief in asthma. Like ipratropium bromide, it does not have anti-inflammatory effects.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
When treating asthma, corticosteroids like fluticasone should be used as the first-line treatment for chronic inflammation, while bronchodilators like ipratropium bromide and terbutaline are reserved for acute symptom relief. This distinction is crucial in managing asthma and preventing exacerbations.
**Correct Answer:** A. Fluticasone