The pathophysiology of obstructive and non-obstructive<unk>  can be better explained by understading underlying pathology. Obstructive<unk> , the most common type of<unk> , occurs due to obstruction at any level from the trachea to the alveoli. Foreign bodies, tumors, and mucus plugs are the most common causes of obstructive<unk> . Non obstructive<unk>  occurs due to severe lung scarring caused by necrotizing pneumonias or granulomatous diseases leading to cicatrisation<unk> . Lung infiltration by a tumor (bronchoalveolar carcinoma) may cause replacement<unk> , thoracic space occupying lesions can cause compression<unk> , diminished levels of surfactant can lead to adhesive<unk>  presenting as ARDS. Passive<unk>  occurs due to absence of contact between the parietal and visceral pleurae due to fluid (pleural effusion), air (pneumothorax), blood (hemothorax) etc. Patients undergoing upper abdominal and thoracic procedures may develop postoperative<unk>  which may arise as a complication of surgery or anaesthesia leading to decreased surfactant activity and dysfunction of the diaphragm.
Atelectasis pathophysiology
Emphysema pathophysiology
Pulmonary edema pathophysiology
Air embolism pathophysiology
Pulmonary embolism pathophysiology
Pleural effusion pathophysiology
Acute bronchitis pathophysiology
Pneumoconiosis pathophysiology