INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA Meaning and
Definition
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Interstitial emphysema is a medical condition characterized by the abnormal accumulation of air or gas in the tissues between the smallest air sacs (alveoli) of the lungs. It occurs when air leaks from the airways and enters the connective tissue spaces within the lung, leading to the expansion of these tissues. This condition can also be referred to as subcutaneous emphysema when the air accumulates in the tissues beneath the skin.
Interstitial emphysema typically occurs as a result of lung injury or trauma, such as a punctured lung, chest surgery, or mechanical ventilation. The accumulation of air in the lung tissues can cause respiratory distress and hinder the normal exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Symptoms of interstitial emphysema include shortness of breath, rapid breathing, chest pain, and skin that feels crackly or squishy to touch.
Diagnosis of interstitial emphysema is usually done through imaging techniques such as X-rays or computed tomography (CT) scans. Treatment depends on the underlying cause but often involves addressing the air leak and providing supportive care to improve lung function. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair the lung or remove trapped air.
Overall, interstitial emphysema is a condition characterized by the abnormal accumulation of air in the lung tissues, resulting in respiratory difficulties and potential complications. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate management are essential to improve patient outcomes.
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(1) The presence of air in the pulmonary tissues consequent upon rupture of the air-cells; (2) the presence of air or gas in the connective tissue.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
- unterstitial emphysema
- jnterstitial emphysema
- knterstitial emphysema
- onterstitial emphysema
- 9nterstitial emphysema
- 8nterstitial emphysema
- ibterstitial emphysema
- imterstitial emphysema
- ijterstitial emphysema
- ihterstitial emphysema
- inrerstitial emphysema
- inferstitial emphysema
- ingerstitial emphysema
- inyerstitial emphysema
- in6erstitial emphysema
- in5erstitial emphysema
- intwrstitial emphysema
- intsrstitial emphysema
- intdrstitial emphysema
- intrrstitial emphysema
Etymology of INTERSTITIAL EMPHYSEMA
The word "interstitial emphysema" is a medical term that combines two separate terms: "interstitial" and "emphysema".
1. Interstitial: The term "interstitial" derives from the Latin word "interstitium", which means "space between". In medical terminology, "interstitial" refers to the space or area between the cells or tissues of an organ. It is used to describe diseases or conditions that affect these spaces.
2. Emphysema: The term "emphysema" comes from the Greek word "emphysēma", which means "inflation" or "swelling". In medical terminology, "emphysema" specifically refers to a lung condition characterized by the distention and destruction of the alveoli (tiny air sacs) in the lungs, causing breathing difficulties.
