Hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction is the unique re sponse of the lung circulation to ventilation with hy poxic gas, resulting in an increase in pulmonary arterial pressure and vascular resistance. The site of hypoxic vasoconstriction is the small pulmonary arteries. The hypoxic pressor response optimizes ventilation and per fusion matching and thus preserves arterial oxygen ten sion. The mechanism of this response is not clear, al though considerable knowledge has been gained about its modulation. We review the current state of under standing of the physiology and pathophysiology of hy poxic pulmonary vasoconstriction.
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