VESICULAR BRONCHIOLITIS Meaning and
Definition
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Vesicular bronchiolitis is a medical condition characterized by the inflammation of the bronchioles, which are the small airways in the lungs. This condition mainly affects infants and young children, causing respiratory symptoms and difficulties.
In vesicular bronchiolitis, the inflammation of the bronchioles results in the narrowing and obstruction of these airways. This leads to symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, and rapid or labored breathing. The condition is often caused by viral infections, particularly respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), although other viruses and bacteria can also be responsible.
The term "vesicular" in vesicular bronchiolitis refers to the presence of small, fluid-filled sacs or vesicles in the affected bronchioles. These vesicles can cause further obstruction of the airways, leading to increased respiratory distress. The inflammation and obstruction can also result in a decreased capacity of the lungs to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide, leading to low oxygen levels in the blood.
Diagnosis of vesicular bronchiolitis is typically based on a combination of the patient's clinical presentation, physical examination, and medical history. Additional tests, such as chest X-rays or respiratory viral panel testing, may be performed to confirm the diagnosis or identify the specific virus causing the infection.
Treatment of vesicular bronchiolitis primarily focuses on relieving the symptoms and supporting the patient's respiratory function. This may include providing oxygen therapy, administering bronchodilators to open up the airways, and ensuring adequate hydration. In severe cases, hospitalization and other interventions such as supplemental nutrition or mechanical ventilation may be necessary.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for VESICULAR BRONCHIOLITIS
Etymology of VESICULAR BRONCHIOLITIS
The term "vesicular bronchiolitis" is composed of two main words: "vesicular" and "bronchiolitis".
1. "Vesicular" has its origin in the Latin word "vesicula", meaning "small bladder" or "blister". It is derived from the diminutive form of "vesica", which means "bladder". In medical terms, the word "vesicular" is often used to describe the appearance of small fluid-filled sacs or blisters.
2. "Bronchiolitis" is derived from two Latin words: "bronchi" and "-olus". "Bronchi" refers to the larger airways in the lungs, while "-olus" is a suffix meaning "small" or "diminutive". Therefore, "bronchiolitis" refers to the inflammation of the bronchioles, the smaller airways in the lungs.
