Endotracheitis

/ˌɛndoʊtreɪkiˈaɪtɪs/ noun

Definition

Inflammation of the lining of the trachea (windpipe), often caused by infection or irritation from prolonged intubation.

Etymology

From 'endotracheal' plus the medical suffix '-itis' (inflammation), used in clinical medicine to diagnose inflammatory conditions affecting the inner lining of the trachea.

Kelly Says

Hospital patients on ventilators can develop endotracheitis from the constant irritation of the breathing tube—it's a reminder of how even life-saving medical devices can have side effects that doctors need to monitor carefully.

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