Dead air space can be categorized into which two types?

• A. Physiological and anatomical
• B. Active and passive
• C. Clinical and minor
• D. Dynamic and static

Answer: (A)

Dead air space in the respiratory system refers to areas where air is present but does not participate in gas exchange. It can be categorized into two types: physiological dead space and anatomical dead space.

Anatomical dead space refers to the parts of the respiratory tract where air is present but no gas exchange occurs, such as the trachea and bronchi. This is the volume of air in the conducting airways, which do not contribute to oxygen uptake or carbon dioxide removal.

Physiological dead space includes anatomical dead space plus any additional areas of the alveoli that are ventilated but not perfused with blood. This can occur in certain lung conditions where some alveoli may be ventilated but not effectively participating in gas exchange due to issues like inadequate blood flow (perfusion).

These two categories allow for a comprehensive understanding of where breathing may not be effectively facilitating gas exchange, which is critical in assessing respiratory function and efficiency.