title: An overview of respiratory muscle function.
abstract: This article reviews the important features of respiratory muscle structure and function, including fiber types, fatigue, work and efficiency of breathing, neural connections, circulation, and mechanical properties. Emphasis is placed on the functional anatomy and the coordination and interaction of respiratory muscle action. Normal function is contrasted with the respiratory muscle dysfunction seen in patients with neuromuscular disease.
authors.affiliation: Medical Intensive Care Unit, New England Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts.
authors.forename: S K
authors.initials: SK
authors.lastname: Epstein
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D009468:Neuromuscular Diseases / Q000150:complications; D012131:Respiratory Insufficiency / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology; D015656:Respiratory Mechanics / Q000502:physiology*; D012132:Respiratory Muscles / Q000502:physiology*