Bronchi and Bronchioles - Anatomy & Physiology

Introduction

The trachea bifurcates at the levels of the 4th-6th intercostal space, approximately halfway between the thoracic inlet and the diaphragm. It divides into two Principle 'Bronchi', tubes which conduct air into the lungs. These further divide into smaller bronchi and bronchioles within the lung tissue. The initial division after entry to the lung is known as the Principle Bronchi, and this further divides into two Lobar Bronchi' for the left lung, and into four Lobar Bronchi for the right lung.

Structure

• The structure of the larger bronchi is identical to that of the trachea. On the smaller bronchi the C-shaped cartilage rings are gradually replaced by irregular plaques of cartilage. Bronchioles have no cartilage at all.
• The bronchioles are less than 1mm in diameter, and undergo further divisions, the last of which is characterised by the loss of goblet cells.

Function

• The bronchi and bronchioles are parts of the 'Conduction Zone' of the respiratory system - allowing the passage of air from the external environment into the lungs where gaseous exchange can take place. The Conduction Zone is also known as dead space, and no gaseous exchange can take place in this area.
• Some of the Bronchioles have alveoli scattered along their length, and thus form part of the 'Respiratory Zone' - the site for gaseous exchange.

Species Differences

• Between species the diameter of the bronchi and bronchioles vary greatly and more significantly than the variations of the trachea.
• The number of bronchial divisions before bronchioles are present varies by species - small mammals such as mice may have only 4/5 generations, whereas 12+ may be necessary in larger animals.
• Avian Respiration is very different to that of mammals.
• The Respiratory Systems of non-Homeotherms are also very different to that of mammals.

Links

Bronchi and Bronchioles - Pathology

References

• Dyce, K.M., Sack, W.O. and Wensing, C.J.G. (2002) Textbook of Veterinary Anatomy. 3rd ed. Philadelphia: Saunders.

• Budras, K.D., McCarthy, P.H., Fricke, W. and Richter, R. (2002) Anatomy of the Dog. 4th ed. Hannover: Schlutersche GmbH & Co. KG, Verlag und Druckerei.