intra-acinar arteriole

An arteriole that branches from the pulmonary arteriole and supplies deoxygenated blood to the pulmonary capillaries in the alveoli of the lungs.

Type Organ
Structure parente respiratory system arteriole

Questions fréquentes

What is an intra-acinar arteriole?
An intra-acinar arteriole is a small blood vessel that branches from a pulmonary arteriole and carries deoxygenated blood into the pulmonary capillaries surrounding the alveoli of the lungs. These arterioles are part of the pulmonary microvascular network within the lung acinus.
Where is the intra-acinar arteriole located?
Intra-acinar arterioles are located within the lung acini — the functional units of the lung composed of the respiratory bronchioles, alveolar ducts, alveolar sacs, and alveoli. They are distributed throughout the lung parenchyma alongside the airways and alveoli they supply.
What is the function of the intra-acinar arteriole?
The intra-acinar arteriole delivers deoxygenated blood from the pulmonary circulation to the alveolar capillary network, where gas exchange occurs. Oxygen diffuses into the blood from the alveolar air, and carbon dioxide diffuses in the opposite direction, enabling blood oxygenation.
What conditions may be associated with intra-acinar arterioles?
Structural and functional changes in intra-acinar arterioles may be associated with various pulmonary conditions affecting the pulmonary microvasculature. Research in respiratory medicine has examined these vessels in the context of pulmonary diseases. Any specific concern requires clinical evaluation.
How are intra-acinar arterioles examined?
Intra-acinar arterioles are studied primarily through histological examination of lung tissue obtained by biopsy or at autopsy. They are below the resolution of standard clinical imaging but can be examined with micro-CT in research settings. Pulmonary function tests and imaging assess the broader lung parenchyma.

Structures associées

Avertissement médical

Ce contenu est uniquement à des fins éducatives et informatives. Il n'est pas destiné à remplacer un avis médical professionnel, un diagnostic ou un traitement. Consultez toujours votre médecin ou un autre professionnel de santé qualifié pour toute question relative à un état médical. Ne négligez jamais un avis médical professionnel et ne tardez pas à le consulter en raison de quelque chose que vous avez lu sur ce site web.

Educational Disclaimer

This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical decisions.

Data sources: Terminologia Anatomica, Foundational Model of Anatomy, Wikidata.