Effect of Body Temperature on Pulmonary Gas Exchange

Abstract

Measurements were made of the arterial-alveolar carbon dioxide gradient in anesthetized dogs at body temperatures ranging from normal down to 16°C. Pulmonary diffusing capacity was determined by a steady-state carbon monoxide method in anesthetized dogs at normal body temperatures and at 25°C. From the results it is concluded that although diffusing capacity is reduced at low body temperatures, it is still adequate for transfer of both CO₂ and O₂ because the metabolic requirements for gas exchange are also reduced.