Atelectasis
Atelectasis
Atelectasis (pronounced: at-uh-LEK-tuh-sis) is a medical condition that involves the partial or complete collapse of an entire lung or a portion of a lung. It is a common complication after surgery or in patients with lung diseases.
Etymology
The term "atelectasis" is derived from the Greek words "ateles" and "ektasis," which mean "incomplete" and "expansion," respectively.
Definition
Atelectasis is a condition characterized by the collapse or closure of a lung resulting in reduced or absent gas exchange. It may affect part or all of a lung. It is usually a symptom of other diseases such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, and lung cancer.
Symptoms
Symptoms of atelectasis may include difficulty breathing, coughing, chest pain, and fever. However, some people with atelectasis may not experience any noticeable symptoms, especially if the condition is mild or only affects a small area of the lung.
Causes
Atelectasis can be caused by a blockage of the air passages (bronchus or bronchioles) or by pressure on the outside of the lung. Risk factors include anesthesia, foreign objects in the airway, respiratory disease, and tumors.
Treatment
Treatment for atelectasis depends on the cause and severity of the lung collapse. It may include procedures to remove airway obstructions, physiotherapy to help re-expand the lung, or surgery in severe cases.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Atelectasis
- Wikipedia's article - Atelectasis
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