Sleep Board Review Test 1

3. At a PO2 < _____ mmHg the carotid body is stimulated and will increase ventilation, but when the PO2 is < _____ mmHg the carotid body response is blunted.

a. 70, 40

b. 80, 30

c. 60, 40

d. 70, 30

e. 70, 20

Answer: c 60, 40

The carotid body is stimulated when the PO2 drops below 60 mmHg, but this response is blunted with severe hypoxia (PO2 < 40 mmHg).

Reference:

Kryger et al, Principles and Practice of Sleep Medicine, 4^th edition, 2005; page 224.

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