What condition is described as low oxygen in arterial blood?

Hypoxemia refers specifically to low levels of oxygen in the arterial blood. This condition indicates that the blood isn't carrying adequate oxygen to the body's tissues and organs, which can result in serious complications if not addressed.

The condition often results from various underlying issues, such as respiratory illnesses, heart defects, or environmental factors like high altitudes. It is identified through arterial blood gas measurements or pulse oximetry, and its diagnosis is crucial for effective medical intervention.

Other conditions, such as hypoxia, refer to a general deficiency of oxygen in the tissues, rather than being specific to arterial blood. Hypercapnia involves elevated carbon dioxide levels in the blood, which is a different respiratory issue. Ventilation-perfusion mismatch describes a disorder in lung function where air flow and blood flow are not properly matched, potentially leading to hypoxemia but not defining it directly. Each of these terms addresses different aspects of respiratory physiology and pathology, making it important to use the correct terminology to describe specific conditions.