Pulmonary

Pulmonary is an adjective relating to the lungs and the organs and tissues involved in respiration. In medical usage, it covers the anatomy, physiology, pathology, and treatment of the lungs, airways, pleura, and pulmonary vasculature.

The lungs are paired organs housed within the thoracic cavity. The airway begins at the trachea, divides into bronchi and bronchioles, and ends in alveolar sacs where gas exchange occurs. The alveoli are surrounded by capillaries; the thin walls and surfactant reduce surface tension to facilitate breathing. The pleura encases the lungs, with a visceral layer on the lungs and a parietal layer lining the chest wall, separated by a pleural cavity.

Pulmonary circulation moves blood between the heart and lungs. Deoxygenated blood travels from the right ventricle through the pulmonary arteries to the lungs, where it becomes oxygenated and returns via the pulmonary veins to the left atrium. Gas exchange balances oxygen uptake with carbon dioxide removal, supporting tissue metabolism.

Clinically, pulmonary disorders include obstructive diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; restrictive diseases such as interstitial fibrosis; infections such as pneumonia; vascular conditions such as pulmonary embolism; and malignancies. Other problems include pneumothorax and pleural effusions.

Assessment involves history, exam, and tests. Pulmonary function tests measure volumes, flow, and diffusion capacity; imaging such as chest radiographs and computed tomography assists diagnosis; pulse oximetry and arterial blood gases assess oxygenation. Management aims to relieve symptoms, treat underlying disease, and prevent complications, using bronchodilators, anti-inflammatory agents, supplemental oxygen, ventilation when needed, vaccines, and rehabilitation.