Shunt vs. Dead Space vs. V/Q Mismatch | EXPLAINED

Shunt, dead space, and V/Q mismatch are all terms used to describe different types of ventilation-perfusion abnormalities in the lungs. Shunt refers to blood that bypasses the alveoli and does not participate in gas exchange, leading to hypoxemia. Dead space is the opposite, where ventilation is not matched with perfusion, resulting in wasted ventilation and decreased gas exchange. V/Q mismatch occurs when there is an imbalance between ventilation and perfusion in different areas of the lungs, leading to impaired gas exchange. Each of these abnormalities can result in hypoxemia and respiratory distress, and identifying the specific cause is essential for appropriate management.