Question

In terms of V/Q mismatch, what is an anatomical shunt?

a. Ventilation is impaired, but perfusion is normal

b. Ventilation is normal, but perfusion is impaired

c. Inadequate blood flow to well-ventilated areas

d. Inadequate air exchange in well-perfused areas

Answer 1

An anatomical shunt in terms of V/Q mismatch is when there is inadequate air exchange in well-perfused areas of the lungs, leading to impaired gas exchange.

Step-by-step explanation:

In terms of V/Q mismatch, an anatomical shunt is a condition where there is an inadequacy in air exchange in areas of the lung that are well-perfused with blood. To put it simply, the anatomical shunt refers to the presence of well-perfused regions of the lung that are not being adequately ventilated, leading to impaired gas exchange. This kind of shunt develops because of a disparity between the ventilation of the airways and the perfusion of the arteries that service those airways. Such a situation is exemplified when gravitational forces affect lung regions differently when a person is upright, creating disparities in the distribution of air and blood within the lungs.