Question

1. Would you classify the alteration in normal lung function as a disorder of ventilation or of diffusion? Explain your rationale.

Answer 1

We can classify the alteration in normal function of the lung as two groups of disorder:

1) Disorder of ventilation:

- In this group, the disorder is in the entry and exit of the air between lung and atmosphere. It includes the derangement in the passage of air through the conducting airways.

- There can be an obstruction of airflow or narrowing of the airways

2) Disorder of diffusion:

- It includes defects occurring in the respiratory passageways. Respiratory passageways are the site where gaseous exchange occurs via diffusion through the respiratory membrane.

- This defect can be present in the Alveoli, alveolar duct, respiratory bronchioles.