Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 89%
Entry Exam
Passage / Scenario
Which of the following respiratory structures is affected by a disease that disrupts gas exchange, such as emphysema?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
Emphysema is a condition that primarily affects the alveoli in the lungs. Alveoli are tiny air sacs where the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide occurs. In emphysema, the walls of these air sacs break down, reducing the surface area available for gas exchange. This leads to impaired respiratory function, making it harder for oxygen to enter the bloodstream and for carbon dioxide to be removed. Therefore, the correct answer is the alveoli (Choice B).