Respiratory System Questions and Answers PDF Related

Review Respiratory System Questions and Answers PDF related questions and content

Total alveolar surface area is reduced in

  • A. lung cancer
  • B. atelectasis
  • C. emphysema
  • D. pneumothorax
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: emphysema. Emphysema is a condition characterized by the destruction of alveolar walls, leading to a decrease in alveolar surface area for gas exchange. This reduction in surface area impairs the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the lungs. In contrast, lung cancer (A) primarily affects lung tissue but may not directly reduce alveolar surface area. Atelectasis (B) refers to the collapse of lung tissue, which can impact ventilation but not necessarily alveolar surface area. Pneumothorax (D) is the presence of air in the pleural space and does not directly affect alveolar surface area.