What effect does damage to the type II pneumocytes have in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)?
A) Atelectasis and decreased lung compliance
B) Disruption of alveolar-capillary membrane
C) Pulmonary hypertension
D) Pulmonary fibrosis

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Damage to type II pneumocytes leads to a decrease in surfactant production, which helps to reduce surface tension and prevent atelectasis. Without surfactant, the alveoli are more likely to collapse, leading to decreased lung compliance. Disruption of the alveolar-capillary membrane is caused by injury to the endothelial cells and is not directly related to damage to type II pneumocytes. Pulmonary hypertension and pulmonary fibrosis can occur in the later stages of ARDS but are not directly caused by damage to type II pneumocytes.

What Effect Does Damage to the Type II Pneumocytes Have