Book excerpt: Reflecting the trusted expertise of Dr. John B. West and Dr. Andrew M. Luks, West’s Pulmonary Pathophysiology: The Essentials, Tenth Edition offers accessible explanations of disease processes that affect the respiratory system. This best-selling companion to West’s Respiratory Physiology: The Essentials, 11th Edition, has served generations of students and practitioners who work with respiratory patients, presenting vital knowledge in a concise, straightforward manner that’s easy to understand. Building on this legacy of success, the tenth edition is updated throughout with the latest clinical perspectives, new images, clinical vignettes, and enhanced USMLE-style review questions to help students excel in today’s changing healthcare practice.