What condition is characterized by the formation of scar tissue in the connective tissue of the lungs?

• A. Pneumonia
• B. Pulmonary fibrosis
• C. Asthma
• D. Bronchitis

Answer: (B)

The condition characterized by the formation of scar tissue in the connective tissue of the lungs is pulmonary fibrosis. This condition involves the thickening and stiffening of lung tissue due to the accumulation of excess fibrous connective tissue, leading to decreased lung compliance and impaired gas exchange.

In pulmonary fibrosis, the ongoing inflammation results in the replacement of normal lung architecture with fibrous tissue, which reduces the lungs' effectiveness in taking in oxygen and exhaling carbon dioxide. The causes of pulmonary fibrosis can vary, including long-term exposure to irritants (like asbestos or silica dust), certain medications, radiation therapy, and autoimmune diseases.

Other conditions mentioned do not primarily involve the formation of scar tissue in the lungs. Pneumonia involves inflammation and infection of lung tissue. Asthma is characterized by reversible airway obstruction due to bronchial hyperreactivity and inflammation but does not involve the formation of scar tissue. Bronchitis, while inflammatory and symptomatic of airway obstruction, is also not primarily associated with the development of scar tissue in the lungs.