A pleural effusion NOT typically a consequence of pleural effusion?

A pleural effusion NOT typically a consequence of pleural effusion?

• A. Decreased lung volume
• B. Atelectasis
• C. Increased gas exchange
• D. Impaired gas exchange

Answer: (C)

Pleural effusion causes fluid to collect in the space around the lung, which mechanically restricts lung expansion. This leads to decreased lung volume because the inflated lung portion has less room to expand. The external pressure can also cause compression of the lung tissue and result in atelectasis, where part of the lung collapses due to the lack of air in the compressed areas. Because less ventilated lung tissue is available, gas exchange is impaired, with oxygenation typically worsened rather than improved. An increase in gas exchange isn’t expected with a pleural effusion, making that option not a typical consequence.

Pleural effusion causes fluid to collect in the space around the lung, which mechanically restricts lung expansion. This leads to decreased lung volume because the inflated lung portion has less room to expand. The external pressure can also cause compression of the lung tissue and result in atelectasis, where part of the lung collapses due to the lack of air in the compressed areas. Because less ventilated lung tissue is available, gas exchange is impaired, with oxygenation typically worsened rather than improved. An increase in gas exchange isn’t expected with a pleural effusion, making that option not a typical consequence.