Capillary Exchange

Question 1

What is the name of the two forces driving fluid in/out of the capillaries?

Answer 1

Hydrostatic and oncotic pressure.

Question 2

What Is hydrostatic pressure?

Answer 2

The hydrostatic pressure is the pressure generated by fluid within the capillaries.
The hydrostatic pressure is usually higher within the capillaries to create a gradient that forces fluid out of the capillaries.

Question 3

What is oncotic pressure?

Answer 3

The oncotic pressure is the pressure created by the presence of proteins (such as albumin) in the capillaries.
It is higher in the capillaries than the interstitial fluid and resists the movement of water out of the capillaries.

Question 4

The hydrostatic pressure and oncotic pressure are ________ forces (equal, opposing, unequal).

Answer 4

Opposing forces since the water is being forced in opposing directions.

Question 5

An increase in capillary pressure is caused by which condition?

Answer 5

Heart failure - it can lead to pulmonary oedema and peripheral oedema.

Question 6

A decrease in plasma proteins are caused by which condition(s)?

Answer 6

Nephrotic syndrome

Liver failure

Question 7

An increase in capillary permeability to fluids is caused by which condition?

Answer 7

Infection
Toxins
Burns

Question 8

An increase in osmotic pressure is caused by which condition?

Answer 8

Lymphatic blockage - proteins leave the capillaries and enter the interstitial space - drawing fluid into this area.