NONRESPIRATORY FUNCTIONS OF THE LUNG
In addition to its central role in gas exchange, the lung is active in both the metabolism and the degradation of many substances. Surfactant production by the alveolar Type II cell is an important metabolic function of the lungs. This phospholipid minimizes surface tension and thus confers stability on the alveoli and small airways, preventing atelectasis and decreasing the work of breathing. The failure of the immature lung to produce sufficient surfactant leads to the respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) of the newborn. The lung is also involved in the biosynthesis of arachidonic acid into products of both the lipoxygenase and cyclo-oxygenase pathways. While a myriad of physiological functions have been ascribed to these agents, a clear relationship to pulmonary function is still lacking. Additionally, the lung is capable of removing or inactivating a large number of biologically active substances, including serotonin, bradykinin, and prostaglandins. It is also the principal site of the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II.
- PERIPHERAL VENOUS DISEASE
- NONRESPIRATORY FUNCTIONS OF THE LUNG
- HEART DISEASE AND PREGNANCY
- ENVIRONMENTAL DAMAGE OF THE EXTREMITIES
- THE AIRWAY STRUCTURE
- GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF CARDIAC SURGERY
- ARTERIOSCLEROSIS OBLITERANS
- ARTERIAL TRAUMA
- THE BLOOD VESSELS STRUCTURE
- MISCELLANEOUS AORTIC DISEASE
- PERIPHERAL ANEURYSMS AMD FISTULAE
- VENTILATION
- RAYNAUD'S PHENOMENON
- THROMBOANGIITIS OBLITERANS
- GENERAL SURGERY IN THE PATIENT WITH HEART DISEASE
- NONPULMONARY FACTORS
- PULMONARY GAS EXCHANGE
- GAS TRANSFER
- PERFUSION