Blóðsúrefnisþrýstingur

Blóðsúrefnisþrýstingur, often abbreviated as PaO2, refers to the pressure exerted by dissolved oxygen in arterial blood. It is a crucial measurement in assessing the effectiveness of the lungs in oxygenating the blood and the body's ability to transport oxygen to the tissues. A normal PaO2 level in healthy adults breathing room air at sea level typically ranges from 80 to 100 millimeters of mercury (mmHg). This value can fluctuate based on factors such as altitude, the fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2), and an individual's physiological state.

Low PaO2 levels, known as hypoxemia, can indicate various respiratory or circulatory problems. These may include lung diseases like pneumonia or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary embolism, or conditions affecting the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently. Conversely, abnormally high PaO2 levels are less common in clinical practice but can occur during hyperbaric oxygen therapy or with excessive mechanical ventilation. Monitoring PaO2 is essential for diagnosing and managing a wide range of medical conditions, guiding treatment decisions, and evaluating patient prognosis. Arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis is the standard method for measuring PaO2.