Question

For each of the following pathology or injury descriptions, determine if this would be considered a disease of conduction, or of respiration (i.e. gas exchange).

Pneumonia – characterized by the accumulation of fluid and white blood cells within the alveoli. This leads to a smaller surface area of alveolar walls. Which process is impeded? (1pt) A. Conduction B. Respiration (which one)

Bronchitis – an inflammation of the mucosa (lining) of the bronchial tree (i.e. bronchi and bronchioles). Which process is impeded? (1pt) A. Conduction B. Respiration (which one)

Diaphragm paralysis – often results from damage to the phrenic nerve, leading to an inability to regulate breathing. Which process is impeded? (1pt) A. Conduction B. Respiration

Emphysema – caused by damage to (and loss of) alveolar walls. Alveoli become characteristically large with loss of dividing walls. Which process is impeded? (1pt) A. Conduction B. Respiration

Answer 1

Pneumonia- In this alveoli is filled with puss and inflammatory exudate which interferes with normal exchange mechanism in alveolar membrane. - disease of respiration

Bronchitis- In this due to chronic irritation of bronchi and trachea which leads to mucus hypersecretion and inflammation in conducting part causing obstruction in airways. - disease of conduction

Diaphragm paralysis- diaphragm movement leads to change in volume of thoracic cavity and lungs which aids in inspiration and expiration. Due to its paralysis air cannot be inspired and leads to conduction defect. - disease of conduction

Emphysema- There is weakened walls of bronchioles and smaller airways which collapses during expiration leading to obstruction of airways. - disease of conduction.