Dead space ventilation in infants with respiratory distress syndrome is frequently caused by which of the following

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Dead space ventilation in infants with respiratory distress syndrome is frequently caused by alveolar hyperinflation, which occurs due to the collapse of alveoli and subsequent overinflation of the remaining ones. This results in reduced surface area for gas exchange, leading to increased dead space ventilation. A&B are incorrect as there is no evidence to support that increased cardiac output or excess vascularization causes dead space ventilation in these infants. D is incorrect as extreme prematurity primarily affects the respiratory system in terms of structural immaturity, rather than alveolar-capillary membrane damage per se.

Dead Space Ventilation in Infants with Respiratory Distress Syndrome Is