If carotid bodies are removed, what will occur?

Question

A man with a long history of increased blood cholesterol levels has to have part of his carotid artery removed because a blockage has developed there. If the carotid bodies are removed during this procedure, which of the following is most likely to occur?

A. The respiratory center will become less sensitive to depressants.
B. The lungs will overinflate and potentially explode.
C. The diaphragm will lose some of its ability to generate negative pressure.
D. The respiratory rate may not increase as effectively in response to low levels of oxygen.

Answer 1

D. The carotid body contains cells that are sensitive to oxygen levels. They send signals to the brain to increase respiration when they detect there is low oxygen content in the blood.

Answer 2

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