What determines the airway diameter in the normal lung?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The airway diameter in the normal lung is mainly determined by the balance between sympathetic and parasympathetic tone. The parasympathetic nervous system causes constriction of the airways, while the sympathetic nervous system causes dilation. The balance of these two systems determines the airway diameter.

B, C, and D are not correct choices. The amount of patient effort can affect airway resistance, but it does not determine airway diameter in the normal lung. The activity level of the submucosal glands and the amount of dopamine present in the airway walls are also not major factors in determining the airway diameter.

What Determines the Airway Diameter in the Normal Lung