Question

Which pathophysiological changes in the lungs occur with emphysema? Select all that apply. One, some, or all responses may be correct.

1 Collapse of alveolar walls
2 Trapping of air in distal lung structures
3 Increases in pulmonary artery pressures
4 Increase in surface area for gas exchange
5 Movement of fluid from capillaries into alveoli

Answer 1

The correct answers are options 1,2 and 3. In emphysema, pathophysiological changes include the collapse of alveolar walls, trapping of air in distal lung structures, and increases in pulmonary artery pressures, leading to a decrease in gas exchange surface area and difficulties in breathing.

Step-by-step explanation:

Pathophysiological changes in the lungs that occur with emphysema include:

• Collapse of alveolar walls: In emphysema, the alveoli walls are destroyed, which leads to a decrease in surface area for gas exchange.
• Trapping of air in distal lung structures: Due to the loss of elastic fibers and alveolar walls, there is an increase in the lung's overall compliance, which results in more air being trapped in the lungs at the end of exhalation.
• Increases in pulmonary artery pressures: The damage and changes in lung tissue can lead to an increase in pressure within the pulmonary arteries.

However, there is no increase in surface area for gas exchange as emphysema causes a decrease in surface area. Also, the movement of fluid from capillaries into alveoli is more characteristic of conditions such as pulmonary edema, not emphysema. Therefore, the correct options that describe pathophysiological changes in lungs with emphysema are: 1) Collapse of alveolar walls, 2) Trapping of air in distal lung structures, and 3) Increases in pulmonary artery pressures.