Lung with bronchus and artery

Most of this image is occupied by the air spaces of alveoli (the smallest sacs) and respiratory ducts (channels among interconnected alveoli).

Bronchi and bronchioles are generally associated with blood vessels which follow the same branching tree structure.  Note the arteries, including the smaller artery to the left of the one labelled, and also the arteriole which may be seen passing below the bronchiole at lower right.  Keep in mind that the thin walls separating alveoli include a network of capillaries.

Airway walls are supported by connective tissue.  Bronchial walls also including cartilage, with larger tubes having more cartilage.

Comments and questions: dgking@siu.edu

SIUC / School of Medicine / Anatomy / David King

http://www.siumed.edu/~dking2/crr/CR009b.htm
Last updated:  29 July 2003 / dgk