A 26-year-old recently underwent surgery and is now experiencing dyspnea, cough, fever, and leukocytosis. Tests reveal a collapsed lung caused by the removal of air from obstructed alveoli. Which term is used to document this condition?

a. Compression atelectasis
b. Bronchiectasis
c. Absorption atelectasis
d. Hypoventilation

ANS: C
Absorption atelectasis results from removal of air from obstructed or hypoventilated alveoli or from inhalation of concentrated oxygen or anesthetic agents. Compression atelectasis is caused by external pressure exerted by tumor, fluid, or air in the pleural space or by abdominal distention pressing on a portion of lung. Bronchiectasis is a dilation of the bronchi, not atelectasis. Hypoventilation is inadequate alveolar ventilation of the lungs; it is not due to removal of air.