GLOSSARY

Pulmonary connective tissue is the tissue framework of the lung, comprising elastin and collagen fibres, ground substance, and cells such as fibroblasts, located in the interstitium around the alveoli, airways, and vessels.

Components

• Elastin fibres: lung elasticity and passive elastic recoil during expiration.
• Collagen fibres: strength and prevention of overstretching.
• Fibroblasts: produce and repair fibres.
• Interlobular septa and the sheaths around bronchi and vessels.

Functions

• Maintaining the structure of alveoli and airways.
• Elastic recoil: quiet expiration at rest is passive and depends on this property.
• Radial traction: holding open the cartilage-free bronchioles.
• Lymphatic pathway for fluid drainage.

Clinical Application