Common lung pathologies affecting diffusion Flashcards
1
Q
What happens in emphysema?
A
Destruction of the alveoli so reduces surface area for gas exchange.
2
Q
In individuals with emphysema, what are the PO2 levels like in the pulmonary vein?
A
Low
3
Q
What happens in fibrosis/fibrotic lung disease?
A
Thickened alveolar membrane slows down gas exchange so loss of lung compliance may decreases alveolar ventilation.
