Atelectasis, an airless or collapsed state of pulmonary tissue, may result from
A) obstruction in the bronchial tree.
B) prolonged inactivity.
C) failure to breathe deeply postoperatively.
D) all of the above.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Atelectasis is caused by an obstruction in the bronchial tree; this can be a mucus plug, foreign body, or bronchogenic cancer. Compression atelectasis results when a tumor exerts pressure on the lung and does not allow air to enter that part. Inflammatory pulmonary disease can result in accumulation of fluid in the pleural cavity (pleural effusion) and induce atelectasis.

Atelectasis, an Airless or Collapsed State of Pulmonary Tissue, May