How Do You Spell DESQUAMATIVE PNEUMONIA?

1. Desquamative pneumonia is a rare form of interstitial lung disease characterized by the abnormal accumulation of inflammatory cells in the lungs, primarily affecting the alveoli. The term "desquamative" refers to the shedding or peeling off of cells from the surface of the lung tissue.

   In this condition, there is an excessive proliferation and accumulation of macrophages within the alveolar spaces, which are responsible for clearing debris and foreign particles from the lungs. These macrophages release various inflammatory mediators, leading to the thickening and scarring of the alveoli. As a result, the lungs become stiff and less efficient in oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange.

   Desquamative pneumonia is typically associated with smoking, with a higher prevalence among heavy smokers. However, it can also occur in non-smokers, usually as a result of exposure to other environmental toxins or underlying autoimmune disorders.

   Patients with desquamative pneumonia typically present with symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, and progressive weight loss. Lung function tests may reveal decreased lung capacity and impaired oxygen exchange. Chest imaging, such as computed tomography (CT) scan, often shows diffuse ground-glass opacities and thickening of lung tissue.

   The treatment for desquamative pneumonia typically involves smoking cessation and the use of corticosteroid medications to reduce inflammation and improve lung function. In some cases, other immunosuppressive drugs may be necessary to control the inflammatory response.

   Regular monitoring and follow-up are important, as desquamative pneumonia can progress to more severe lung damage and respiratory failure if left untreated.

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   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for DESQUAMATIVE PNEUMONIA

The word "desquamative pneumonia" is composed of two parts: "desquamative" and "pneumonia".

1. "Desquamative" is derived from the Latin word "desquamare", which means "to scrape off" or "to peel". It is a combination of the prefix "de-" (indicating removal or reversal) and "squama" (meaning "scale" or "flake"). In medical terminology, "desquamative" refers to a process or condition where the skin or epithelial cells peel off or shed.

2. "Pneumonia" comes from the Greek word "pneumōn", meaning "lung". The word is a combination of "pneumonikós" (related to the lungs) and "pneûma" (meaning "breath" or "air").