Final answer:
Hypertrophy of the diaphragm does NOT diminish lung compliance. A stronger diaphragm can actually help to increase lung volume and decrease the work of breathing, contributing to better respiratory function.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student has asked which of the following does NOT diminish lung compliance: A) Nonelastic scar tissue replacing lung tissue (fibrosis) B) Hypertrophy of the diaphragm C) Reduced production of surfactant D) Decreased flexibility of the thoracic cage. Lung compliance is a measure of how easily the lungs can be inflated. Factors that typically reduce lung compliance include nonelastic scar tissue, which can replace lung tissue in conditions like fibrosis, and decreased flexibility of the thoracic cage due to factors such as age or skeletal abnormalities. Additionally, a reduced production of surfactant by the lungs can lead to increased surface tension within the alveoli, making the lungs more difficult to inflate and consequently reducing compliance.
However, the hypertrophy, or enlargement, of the diaphragm would not diminish lung compliance. In fact, a stronger diaphragm can help to increase lung volume and decrease the work of breathing. The diaphragm is the primary muscle of respiration, and its adequate function is essential for maintaining normal respiratory function.
Therefore, the correct answer is B) Hypertrophy of the diaphragm. This condition does not reduce lung compliance but often helps to maintain or improve it.