BRONCHOLITH Meaning and
Definition
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A broncholith is a medical term referring to the presence of a calcified deposit within the bronchial tree. It is derived from the combination of "broncho," meaning bronchus (the air passages in the lungs), and "lith," which signifies stone or calcified material. This condition occurs when an accumulation or hardening of calcium salts forms within the bronchial structures.
Broncholiths can develop due to various causes, including chronic inflammation, infection, or the healing process of previous lung conditions. As these calcifications gradually increase in size, they can cause obstruction or irritation, leading to symptoms like coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing. In some cases, broncholiths can even cause a secondary infection or erosion of the airway walls, resulting in further complications.
Diagnosis of broncholiths typically involves a combination of medical history assessment, physical examination, and radiological techniques such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, or bronchoscopy. Treatment options vary depending on the severity and symptoms of the individual case. Conservative management may include antibiotics and bronchodilators to control symptoms. However, in more severe cases, surgical interventions like broncholith removal or resection of affected lung tissue may be necessary.
Overall, broncholiths represent an abnormal and potentially problematic occurrence within the bronchial tree, requiring medical attention and management to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.
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Bronchial calculus, a hard concretion in a bronchus or bronchial tube.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for BRONCHOLITH
- vroncholith
- nroncholith
- hroncholith
- groncholith
- beoncholith
- bdoncholith
- bfoncholith
- btoncholith
- b5oncholith
- b4oncholith
- brincholith
- brkncholith
- brlncholith
- brpncholith
- br0ncholith
- br9ncholith
- brobcholith
- bromcholith
- brojcholith
- brohcholith
Etymology of BRONCHOLITH
The word "broncholith" is derived from two root words: "broncho-" and "-lith".
The root word "broncho-" comes from the Greek word "brónchos" (βρόγχος), which means "windpipe" or "bronchus". It is a commonly used prefix related to the respiratory system.
The suffix "-lith" is also derived from Greek, particularly from the word "lithos" (λίθος), meaning "stone". It is used to denote a solid mass or calculus.
Therefore, when combined, "broncholith" literally means a "stone-like mass" or a "calcification" within the bronchus or windpipe.
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