MEDizzy - A 37-year-old woman is admitted to the hospital with severe

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Respiratory Physiology

A 37-year-old woman is admitted to the hospital with severe kyphoscoliosis. Over time, this anatomical distortion results in respiratory muscle weakness. Which of the following physiological variables will most likely be above normal in this patient?

ExplanationKyphoscoliosis is a deformity of the spine involving both lateral displacement (scoliosis) and anteroposterior angulation (kyphosis). Muscle weakness can produce inadequate ventilation, which can lead to an accumulation of carbon dioxide and a decrease in arterial pH (respiratory acidosis). Chest wall compliance is decreased, which manifests as a restrictive lung impairment characterized by a decrease in all lung volumes and capacities.