Anatomy of The Respiratory System

These flashcards cover key terminology and definitions related to the anatomy and physiology of the respiratory system.

Respiration

The process of inhaling oxygen and exhaling carbon dioxide.

Internal Respiration

The metabolic process where living cells absorb oxygen and release carbon dioxide.

External Respiration

The exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the environment and respiratory organs.

Pleura

Thin serous membranes surrounding the lungs.

Parietal Pleura

Membrane lining the inner wall of the thorax.

Visceral Pleura

Membrane covering the lungs.

Intrapleural Pressure

Pressure in the pleural space that is negative relative to atmospheric pressure.

Intrapulmonary Pressure

Pressure within the lung that rises and falls with breathing.

Costophrenic Angle

The acute angle where the costal pleura meets the diaphragmatic pleura.

Pneumothorax

The presence of air in the pleural space leading to lung collapse.

Pleural Effusion

Fluid accumulation in the pleural space.

Hemothorax

Blood in the pleural space.

Diaphragm

The primary muscle of respiration that separates the thoracic and abdominal cavities.

Hilum

Medial opening of each lung where bronchi, lymphatics, and blood vessels enter.

Bronchial Circulation

Blood flow to the airways and pleura to support their metabolic needs.

Mucociliary Escalator

Mechanism that keeps the lower respiratory tract free of pathogens and debris.

Type I Pneumocytes

Flat squamous epithelial cells that form the gas exchange surface of the alveolus.

Type II Pneumocytes

Cuboidal cells that produce surfactant to reduce surface tension in the alveoli.

Alveolar Macrophages

Defensive cells that phagocytize foreign particles in the alveoli.

Alveolar-Capillary Membrane

Thin membrane that facilitates gas exchange between the alveoli and capillary blood.

Emphysema

A disease characterized by the rupture of alveoli and destruction of the alveolar-capillary membrane.

Pulmonary Edema

Fluid leaks into the alveolar space due to high capillary pressure.