Which term describes a collapse of alveoli in a portion of the lung?

Which term describes a collapse of alveoli in a portion of the lung?

• A. Atelectasis
• B. Bronchiectasis
• C. Cor pulmonale
• D. ARDS

Answer: (A)

Atelectasis is the collapse or incomplete expansion of alveoli in a portion of the lung. When alveoli lose air and collapse, gas exchange in that region diminishes, which can reduce overall oxygenation. This collapse can be localized to a lobe or a subsegment and often happens because of airway blockage (such as mucus plugs), resorption of air after shallow breathing, or external compression from fluid or air in the pleural space. It commonly occurs after surgery or in states of reduced ventilation. Bronchiectasis involves permanently dilated bronchi due to chronic infection and inflammation, not collapse of alveoli. Cor pulmonale is right-sided heart failure resulting from pulmonary hypertension or chronic lung disease. ARDS is an acute, diffuse injury to the alveolar-capillary membrane causing noncardiogenic pulmonary edema and stiff lungs.

Atelectasis is the collapse or incomplete expansion of alveoli in a portion of the lung. When alveoli lose air and collapse, gas exchange in that region diminishes, which can reduce overall oxygenation. This collapse can be localized to a lobe or a subsegment and often happens because of airway blockage (such as mucus plugs), resorption of air after shallow breathing, or external compression from fluid or air in the pleural space. It commonly occurs after surgery or in states of reduced ventilation.

Bronchiectasis involves permanently dilated bronchi due to chronic infection and inflammation, not collapse of alveoli. Cor pulmonale is right-sided heart failure resulting from pulmonary hypertension or chronic lung disease. ARDS is an acute, diffuse injury to the alveolar-capillary membrane causing noncardiogenic pulmonary edema and stiff lungs.