Which condition describes low oxygen levels in the tissues?

The condition that describes low oxygen levels in the tissues is hypoxia. This term specifically refers to the insufficient oxygen available to meet the metabolic needs of cells and tissues. Hypoxia can result from various factors, such as high altitudes, respiratory problems, or issues with hemoglobin function, leading to potentially detrimental effects on cellular function and health.

In contrast, while apoxia might seem similar, it is less commonly used and does not specifically denote low oxygen levels in the tissues as clearly as hypoxia does. Ischemia, on the other hand, relates to a restriction in blood supply to tissues, which can result in both a lack of oxygen and nutrients, but it is primarily focused on blood flow. Asphyxia refers to a condition that results from a lack of oxygen due to an inability to breathe, which can lead to hypoxia but is a broader term that includes obstruction of airflow rather than just low tissue oxygen levels. Therefore, hypoxia is the most accurate term for low oxygen levels specifically in tissues.