A characteristic feature of emphysema is damaged alveolar walls. What is a consequence of this condition?
A) decrease in the amount of air retained in the lungs after expiration
B) increase in lung elastic recoil during expiration
C) increase in mucus production and secretion
D) decrease in the rate of pulmonary gas exchange
E) increase in the rate of systemic gas exchange

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Damaged alveolar walls in emphysema lead to a decrease in the rate of pulmonary gas exchange since the damaged alveoli cannot efficiently exchange gases with the bloodstream. This results in less oxygen being delivered to the body and less carbon dioxide being eliminated from the body. Choices A, B, C, and E are not consequences of emphysema.

A Characteristic Feature of Emphysema Is Damaged Alveolar Walls