Bronchiostenosis

/ˌbrɒŋkiəʊstəˈnoʊsɪs/ noun

Definition

An abnormal narrowing of the smallest air tubes in the lungs, which restricts airflow and makes breathing difficult.

Etymology

From bronchio- (bronchial airways) combined with -stenosis (from Greek stenos meaning 'narrow' and -osis meaning 'condition'). This medical term emerged as doctors needed language for describing various airway narrowing conditions.

Kelly Says

Bronchiostenosis can result from scarring after severe infections, inhalation injuries, or even genetic conditions—and it's one of those rare diagnosis cases where CT scans showing the actual narrowed passages look eerily like a pinched straw.

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