Respi - normal anatomy

Question 1

normal histology of respi tract

+ types of pneumocytes and fn

Answer 1

columnar ciliated respiratory epithelium
held open by cartilage (large airways)
bronchioles: smooth muscle

type I: line alveoli
type II: produce surfactant - alveoli damage

Question 2

possible causes of poor ventilation

Answer 2

• closed alveoli: pneumothorax
• decrease compliance: scarring of lung
• disruption to air movement: asthma
• diffusion issues: COPD
• diffusion barrier thickens: fibrosis of lung (idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis)