Bronchial artery distribution in various mammals and in humans.

Marked subgross differences in the distribution of the bronchial artery in 10 mammalian species and in humans were found using thin-slice latex injection preparations. Described are variations in distribution to the pleura, interlobular septums, distal airways, alveoli, and the presence of bronchial artery-pulmonary artery anatomoses. The bronchial artery is considered the nutrient artery to the lung. In general, its distribution seems to depend upon the amount of supportive or non-gas exchanging tissues present, which also varies greatly from species to species. The existence of differences in pathologic, physiologic, and pharmacologic characteristics is implied by these findings as well as the need for caution in selecting laboratory animals if the results are to be applied to humans.