Respiratory System

Sections

• anatomy

• function

  • • ventilation

    • perfusion

    • Pulmonary function tests

• Pathological processes

  • • Obstruction vs restriction

The lung pleura is the only part of the lower respiratory system with pain fibres- hence respiratory illness cause pleuritic pain (worse with breathing) as this is the only area of the lung that can sense pain. 

Intrapulmonary shunting

Where blood flow is directed to areas with poor ventilation away from areas with good ventilation

Happens in early pneumonia, producing hypoxia

Dead space

Area of lung not available for gas exchange

Primary problem in emphysema in COPD

Pulmonary Clubbing

• Asbestosis

• Lung Ca

• ILD

• Lung abscess

• Bronchiectasis

Written 2024