Emphysema leads to a change in compliance characterized by what?

• A. An increase due to loss of elastic tissue
• B. A decrease due to thickened alveolar walls
• C. No change
• D. An increase due to fluid accumulation

Answer: (A)

In emphysema, the destruction of elastic tissue in the lungs is a hallmark characteristic. This destruction leads to the enlargement of the air spaces and a loss of the normal elastic recoil of the lung tissue. As the elastic fibers that help the lungs return to their resting position after exhalation are damaged, the compliance of the lungs increases. Compliance refers to the ability of the lungs to expand and fill with air; when compliance is increased, it means the lungs are more easily distended.

Thus, the correct response indicates that the loss of elastic tissue is primarily responsible for the increased compliance observed in patients with emphysema. This increased compliance can make breathing feel less labored at times, but it also contributes to the inefficient gas exchange and other complications often seen in this condition.

In contrast, other options focus on mechanisms like thickened alveolar walls or fluid accumulation which are not typical changes associated with emphysema, further clarifying why they do not correctly represent the pulmonary mechanics involved in this disease.