Alveolitis
Alveolitis
Alveolitis (pronounced al-vee-oh-LY-tis) is a general term for inflammation of the alveoli, the tiny air sacs in the lungs where the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide takes place.
Etymology
The term "Alveolitis" is derived from the Latin word "alveolus" meaning small cavity or pit, and the Greek suffix "-itis" which denotes inflammation.
Definition
Alveolitis is a condition characterized by inflammation and scarring in the alveoli of the lungs, which can result in severe coughing, shortness of breath, and chest pain. It can be caused by various factors, including exposure to certain types of dust or chemicals, infections, or autoimmune diseases.
Types of Alveolitis
There are several types of alveolitis, including:
- Extrinsic Allergic Alveolitis (EAA) - This is caused by inhaling certain types of dust, often in the workplace. It is also known as hypersensitivity pneumonitis.
- Cryptogenic Organizing Pneumonia (COP) - This is a rare form of alveolitis that is not caused by an infection or other identifiable cause.
- Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) - This is a chronic and progressive form of alveolitis that leads to scarring of the lungs.
Symptoms
Symptoms of alveolitis can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition, but may include:
- Shortness of breath
- Persistent dry cough
- Unintended weight loss
- Fatigue
- Chest pain
Treatment
Treatment for alveolitis typically involves reducing inflammation and managing symptoms. This may include:
- Corticosteroids - These medications can help reduce inflammation in the lungs.
- Immunosuppressant drugs - These may be used in cases where alveolitis is caused by an autoimmune disease.
- Oxygen therapy - This can help ensure the body gets enough oxygen if the lungs are not functioning properly.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Alveolitis
- Wikipedia's article - Alveolitis
This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.
Languages: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
Urdu,
বাংলা,
తెలుగు,
தமிழ்,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
русский,
português do Brasil,
Italian,
polski