Keuhkorakkulaparenkymän

Keuhkorakkulaparenkymän refers to the functional tissue of the lung alveoli. These microscopic air sacs are the primary sites of gas exchange in the respiratory system, where oxygen enters the bloodstream and carbon dioxide is removed. The parenchyma is composed of thin-walled alveoli, surrounded by a dense network of capillaries. This structure maximizes the surface area available for diffusion.

The alveolar walls consist of two main cell types: type I pneumocytes, which form the majority of the alveolar surface and are responsible for gas exchange, and type II pneumocytes, which produce surfactant. Surfactant is a substance that reduces surface tension within the alveoli, preventing them from collapsing during exhalation and ensuring efficient breathing.

Diseases affecting the keuhkorakkulaparenkymän can significantly impair lung function. Conditions like pneumonia, pulmonary edema, and interstitial lung diseases involve inflammation or structural changes within the alveolar tissue, disrupting the delicate balance required for respiration. Damage to the parenchyma can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, cough, and reduced oxygen saturation. The integrity and health of the keuhkorakkulaparenkymän are therefore crucial for overall respiratory well-being.