Which of the following factors contribute to a reduction in an elderly person's mucociliary clearance?
1)Decrease in ciliary activity
2)Degenerative changes in the epithelial cells of the mucous membrane
3)Decrease in the phagocytic activity of macrophages in the mucous membrane
4)Decrease in the cough reflex

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

With increasing age, the epithelial cells of the mucous membrane that line the tracheobronchial tree show degenerative changes. Ciliary activity slows down. The phagocytic activity of macrophages in the mucous membrane is decreased. Combined, these changes lead to a reduction in mucociliary clearance. In addition, the loss of an effective cough reflex contributes to the increased susceptibility of older patients to lung infection.

Which of the Following Factors Contribute to a Reduction in an Elderly