Acta physiologica
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The classical equations for measuring the mean and the ideal alveolar O(2) tension are based on assumptions, which are shown to be invalid. So we thought to develop a new, non-invasive method for measuring the mean alveolar P,O(2) within the volume domain (PA,O(2(Bohr))). This method is based on the oxygen uptake vs. tidal volume curve (VO(2) vs. VT) obtained during tidal breathing of room air and/or air enriched with oxygen. ⋯ The deviation of PA,O(2(Bohr)) from PA,O(2(ideal)) has a definite impact on Bohr's dead space ratio for O(2) and CO(2), and on the alveolar-arterial O(2) difference. The difference (PA,O(2(Bohr)) - PA,O(2(ideal))) is not related to the pathology of the disease. So, gas exchange within the lungs should be assessed at the subject's R from PA,O(2(Bohr)) and PA,CO(2(Bohr)) but not from PA,O(2(ideal)) nor Pa,CO(2).