Physiology Week 4

Question 1

What units are used for the “gauge scale” of pulmonary physiology? What does “zero” represent in this case?

Answer 1

1. mmHg (cmH2O)

2. Atmospheric Pressure

Question 2

How is Transmural Pressure calculated?

Answer 2

Transmural Pressure = Alv. Press. - Intrapleural Press.

Question 3

Differentiate between the 2 types of lung diseases:

Answer 3

1. Restrictive: Problem with VOLUME of exhalation being reduced significantly. BUT the FEV1:FVC Ratio will be unaffected by this.
2. Obstructive: Problem with RATE of exhalation, not volume. FEV1:FVC Ratio will be severely reduced.
   Ex: Asthma, COPD, etc.

Question 4

Give an example of lung diseases that would yield a left and right shift on the compliance curve respectively:

Answer 4

1. Left Shift (HIGHER compliance): Emphysema

2. Right Shift (LOWER compliance): Fibrosis

Question 5

Compliance is essentially a measure of ______.

Answer 5

Distensibility

Question 6

Henry’s Law:

Answer 6

Concentration of gas in solution = Partial Pressure x Solubility