Changes

===V-Q Ratio===

===V-Q Ratio===

The adequacy of pulmonary gas exchange relies on the V-Q ratio. The alveoli should receive the ideal amounts of blood and gas for gas exchange. In disease situations the the amount of air delivered may be reduced, the alveolar wall may be thickened or the alveolar surface area may be reduced meaning that less gas is able to diffuse out of the alveolus. Alternatively blood supply may be impaired so that despite sufficient ventilation, insufficient exchange occurs to support the body.

The adequacy of pulmonary gas exchange relies on the V-Q ratio. The alveoli should receive the ideal amounts of blood and gas for gas exchange. In disease situations the amount of air delivered may be reduced, the alveolar wall may be thickened or the alveolar surface area may be reduced meaning that less gas is able to diffuse out of the alveolus. Alternatively blood supply may be impaired so that despite sufficient ventilation, insufficient exchange occurs to support the body.

==Species Differences==

==Species Differences==