Surfactant is a complex substance containing phospholipids and a number of apoproteins. This essential fluid is produced by the Type II alveolar cells, and lines the alveoli and smallest bronchioles. Surfactant reduces surface tension throughout the lung, thereby contributing to its general compliance. It is also important because it stabilizes the alveoli.
Stagnant anoxia occurs when there is interference with the blood flow, although the blood and its oxygen-carrying abilities are normal. A common cause of general stagnant anoxia is heart disease or interference with the return of blood flow through the veins.
anoxia Local absence of oxygen, usually as a result of interference with the blood supply. Complete anoxia is rare, the more usual condition being a relative insufficiency, which is known as hypoxia. anoxia lack of oxygen in tissues. anoxia absence of oxygen in inspired gases, arterial blood or in tissues anoxia