The thin walls of the alveoli provide a significant functional advantage by facilitating efficient gas exchange between the air in the alveoli and the blood in the surrounding capillaries. This minimal barrier allows oxygen to quickly diffuse into the bloodstream and carbon dioxide to exit, ensuring that the body can maintain optimal respiratory function. Additionally, the thin walls help maximize the surface area available for gas exchange, enhancing overall respiratory efficiency.
pulmonary embolism
Hyper inflation of air sacs with destruction of alveolar walls.
The respiratory membrane is formed by a combination of the walls of alveoli and walls of capillaries. It consists of type 1 alveolar cells, a basement membrane, capillary endothelium, alveolar epithelium and macrophages.
EMPHYSEMA
Emphysema or Pulmonay emphysema
The small holes in the walls of the inter alveolar septa are called pores of Kohn. They allow for gas exchange between adjacent alveoli, helping to equalize pressure and promote more efficient oxygen and carbon dioxide diffusion.
The loss of alveolar surface area is referred to as "alveolar destruction" or "alveolar collapse." This condition can occur in various respiratory diseases, such as emphysema, where the walls of the alveoli are damaged, leading to a reduction in gas exchange efficiency. This loss impairs oxygen uptake and carbon dioxide removal, contributing to respiratory complications.
This condition is characterized by permanent enlargement of the distal airway spaces and destruction of alveolar walls, resulting in reduced gas exchange surface area in the lungs. This leads to air trapping, decreased lung elasticity, and difficulty breathing. It is known as emphysema.
The alveoli, which are tiny air sacs in the lungs, are lined with a thin layer of epithelial cells called alveolar epithelium. This lining consists primarily of two types of cells: type I alveolar cells, which facilitate gas exchange, and type II alveolar cells, which produce surfactant to reduce surface tension and prevent alveolar collapse. The alveolar walls also contain a network of capillaries that enable the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the air and blood.
This condition is known as emphysema. It is characterized by damage to the alveoli in the lungs, leading to a loss of elasticity in the alveolar walls. Over time, this can result in the alveoli becoming over-inflated and eventually rupturing, causing difficulty breathing and other respiratory issues.
alveolar and capillary walls and their fused basement membranes
To finish basement walls for a polished and functional living space, start by framing the walls with studs and insulating them for temperature control. Next, install drywall and finish with paint or wallpaper for a polished look. Consider adding electrical outlets, lighting, and any necessary plumbing. Finally, add trim and baseboards for a completed and functional living space.