An analysis of factors affecting tissue oxygen tension

Abstract

A mathematical analysis of the factors affecting the distribution of oxygen in living tissue is the subject of this paper. The Erlang-Krogh equation discussed in [image] 1 is derived from a highly simplified model, comprising a long, straight capillary surrounded by a cylinder of respiring tissue. Succeeding sections describe the effects upon the distribution of oxygen as predicted by this model of the following factors Hexagonal rather than cylindrical symmetry. Decrease in the rate of consumption of oxygen by the cells in the tissue when the oxygen tension falls below a certain value. Variation of the diffusion constant with position in the tissue. A sudden change in the value of the oxygen tension at the capillary surface. A decrease in oxygen tension along the length of the capillary. Fluid flow in the extracellular fluid.