Ectatic emphysema is a medical term used to describe a lung condition. The word "ectatic" is pronounced as /ɪkˈtætɪk/ (/ɪk/ + /ˈtætɪk/) and means "dilated." The second part, "emphysema," is pronounced as /ˌɛmfɪˈsiːmə/ (/ˌɛmfɪ/ + /ˈsiːmə/) and describes a condition where there is damage to the air sacs in the lungs, causing them to lose their elasticity and become enlarged. Together, "ectatic emphysema" refers to the permanent dilatation of the spaces in the lungs, which can impair breathing and lead to other complications.
Ectatic emphysema, also known as bullous emphysema, is a medical condition characterized by the abnormal and irreversible enlargement of air spaces in the lungs. This condition is an advanced form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and is typically associated with long-term smoking or genetic factors.
In ectatic emphysema, the elasticity and structure of the alveoli, which are the small air sacs within the lungs responsible for oxygen exchange, are compromised. This leads to the destruction of alveolar walls and the formation of large, thin-walled air pockets called bullae. These bullae are often described as being over one centimeter in diameter and can develop in various regions of the lungs. Their presence results in reduced lung function and impaired respiratory efficiency.
Patients with ectatic emphysema may experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, chronic cough, and fatigue. The severity of symptoms can gradually worsen over time. In some cases, these bullae can rupture, causing a condition called pneumothorax, where air accumulates in the space between the lung and chest wall, resulting in sudden chest pain, difficulty breathing, and potentially life-threatening consequences.
Diagnosis of ectatic emphysema is typically done through imaging techniques such as chest X-rays or computed tomography (CT) scans, which can visualize the presence and extent of the bullae.
Treatment options for ectatic emphysema may include medications to alleviate symptoms, such as bronchodilators and corticosteroids, as well as lifestyle modifications such as smoking cessation. In severe cases, surgical interventions such as lung volume reduction surgery or lung transplantation might be considered.
Pulmonary e. in which the alveoli are dilated beyond their full normal capacity, yet without atrophy of their walls and blood-vessels.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "ectatic emphysema" is a medical term used to describe a condition characterized by the abnormal enlargement or dilation of airspaces within the lungs. Its etymology can be broken down as follows:
1. Ectatic: The term "ectatic" comes from the Greek word "ektasis" (ἔκτασις), meaning "extension" or "expansion". It is derived from the verb "ekteino" (ἐκτείνω), which means "to stretch out" or "to extend".
2. Emphysema: The term "emphysema" also has a Greek origin. It is derived from the Greek words "en" (ἐν), meaning "in", and "physema" (φύσημα), meaning "inflation" or "swelling".