em·phy·se·ma ( m f -s  m , -z-)n. 1. A pathological condition of the lungs marked by an abnormal increase in the size of the air spaces, resulting in labored breathing and an increased susceptibility to infection. It can be caused by irreversible expansion of the alveoli or by the destruction of alveolar walls. 2. An abnormal distention of body tissues caused by retention of air. [Greek emph  sma, inflation, from emphs n, to blow in : en-, in; see en-2 + phsn, to blow (from phsa, bellows, bladder).]em phy·sema·tous (-sm-ts, -sm-, -zm-, -zm-) adj.em phy·semic adj. & n. |
emphysema [em-fiss-see-ma]
Noun
Pathol a condition in which the air sacs of the lungs are grossly enlarged, causing breathlessness [Greek emphusēma a swelling up]
| emphysema (mf-sm) A chronic lung disease characterized by progressive, irreversible expansion of the alveoli with eventual destruction of alveolar tissue, causing obstruction to airflow. Patients with emphysema often have labored breathing, wheezing, chronic fatigue, and increased susceptibility to infection, and may require oxygen therapy. Long-term smoking is a common cause of emphysema. |
ThesaurusLegend: Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
| Noun | 1. |  emphysema - an abnormal condition of the lungs marked by decreased respiratory function; associated with smoking or chronic bronchitis or old agerespiratory disease, respiratory disorder, respiratory illness - a disease affecting the respiratory system chronic obstructive pulmonary disease - a nonreversible lung disease that is a combination of emphysema and chronic bronchitis; usually patients have been heavy cigarette smokers |
| ?Page tools | ||
|---|---|---|
|