Principles of Pathophysiology

Pathophysiology

The study of how normal physiological processes are altered by disease or injury.

Respiration

The mechanical process of ventilation and the physiological process of gas exchange.

Perfusion

The flow of blood through the pulmonary and systemic circulations to deliver oxygen and nutrients to tissues.

Compensation

The process by which the body makes adjustments to correct imbalances and maintain homeostasis.

Homeostasis

The body's process of self-regulation to maintain internal equilibrium.

Aerobic metabolism

A process of energy production using oxygen, yielding around 32 ATP per glucose molecule.

Anaerobic metabolism

A process of energy production that occurs without oxygen, yielding about 2 ATP per glucose molecule.

Glucose

The primary nutrient and energy source for cells, essential for ATP production.

Cardiac output

The volume of blood the heart pumps per minute, calculated as stroke volume times heart rate.

Stoke volume

The amount of blood ejected by the heart in one contraction.

Shock

A state of inadequate perfusion where cells do not receive enough oxygen and nutrients.

V/Q match

The proper ratio of ventilation (air movement) to perfusion (blood flow) for effective gas exchange.

Hypovolemic shock

Shock caused by low blood volume from bleeding or dehydration.

Cardiogenic shock

Shock resulting from the heart's inability to pump blood effectively.

Distributive shock

Shock caused by loss of blood vessel tone leading to vessel dilation.

Obstructive shock

Shock caused by a physical blockage of blood flow.

Endocrine system

A system of glands that secrete hormones to regulate body functions.

The autonomic nervous system

A part of the nervous system that controls involuntary bodily functions, divided into sympathetic and parasympathetic systems.

Alveoli

Small air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs.

Hypoperfusion

Inadequate blood flow to tissues, leading to insufficient oxygen delivery.

Capillary refill time

A clinical test of circulatory efficiency based on how quickly blood returns to capillaries after pressure is applied.

Electrolytes

Substances that dissociate into charged particles in water, essential for electrical activities in cells.

Epinephrine

A neurotransmitter and hormone released during stress responses, increasing heart rate and blood flow.

Norepinephrine

A neurotransmitter involved in the fight-or-flight response, affecting heart rate and blood vessel constriction.

Lactate

A byproduct of anaerobic metabolism that can accumulate during hypoxia.

Vasoconstriction

The narrowing of blood vessels, which increases blood pressure.

Vasodilation

The widening of blood vessels, which decreases blood pressure.

Blood components

Elements of blood including red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma.

Mitochondria

Cellular organelles that convert glucose into ATP, the main energy source for cells.

Fluid balance

The equilibrium of water distribution among the body's various compartments.

Nervous system dysfunction

Disruptions in the brain or spinal cord function due to trauma or medical conditions.

Hypoxic injury

Tissue damage resulting from insufficient oxygen.