Eparterial bronchus

Eparterial bronchus is a term used in pulmonology to describe a specific bronchus in the lungs. The word "eparterial" is derived from the Greek words "epi," meaning "upon," and "arteria," meaning "windpipe." This bronchus is unique because it is located above the pulmonary artery in the upper lobe of the right lung.

Anatomy

The eparterial bronchus is one of the three secondary bronchi that serve the right lung. It is the only secondary bronchus that is located superior to the pulmonary artery, hence its name. The other two secondary bronchi, the hyparterial bronchus and the middle lobe bronchus, are located below the pulmonary artery.

Function

Like all bronchi, the eparterial bronchus serves to conduct air from the trachea to the smaller airways within the lungs, known as bronchioles. This is a crucial part of the respiratory system, as it allows for the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide to occur.

Clinical significance

Due to its unique location, the eparterial bronchus can be affected by certain medical conditions. For example, a pulmonary embolism in the right pulmonary artery could potentially obstruct the eparterial bronchus, leading to a decrease in airflow to the upper lobe of the right lung. This could result in symptoms such as shortness of breath and chest pain.

See also

• Bronchus
• Pulmonary artery
• Respiratory system

References

Eparterial bronchus Resources
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