Unequal distribution of pulmonary diffusing capacity and the alveolar-arterial PO2 differences: theory

Abstract

The effects of unequal distribution of pulmonary diffusing capacity to the pulmonary blood flow on the alveolar-arterial O2 pressure difference have been studied theoretically. It is demonstrated that, if the diffusing capacity is not distributed proportionally to the blood flow in a lung, the alveolar-arterial O2 pressure difference will in most circumstances be greater than in a lung with the same total diffusing capacity and the same total blood flow, but with equal distribution of diffusing capacity to blood flow. Submitted on May 23, 1960