Transpulmonary pressure

Definition

Transpulmonary pressure is the difference in pressure between the inside of the alveoli and the pleural cavity surrounding the lungs. It is a crucial factor in keeping the lungs inflated and driving respiration.

Related terms

Alveoli:

Tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs between the air we breathe and our bloodstream.

Pleural Cavity:

The thin fluid-filled space between the two pulmonary pleurae (visceral and parietal) of each lung.

Intrapleural Pressure:

The pressure within the pleural cavity, which is typically lower than atmospheric pressure to assist in lung inflation