18 - Chapter 12: Terminology: Combining form (part 1)

adenoidectomy

Removal of adenoids

adenoid hypertrophy

Enlargement of adenoids

alveolar

Pertaining to alveoli (air sacs)

bronchospasm

Spasmodic contraction of bronchi; This tightening of the bronchi and smaller bronchial tubes (bronchioles) is a chief characteristic of bronchitis.

bronchiectasis

Dilation of bronchi; Caused by weakening of the bronchial wall from infection.

bronchodilator

Drug that dilates bronchi; This drug causes dilation, or enlargement, of the opening of a bronchus or bronchiole to improve ventilation to the lungs. An example is albuterol, delivered via an inhaler.

bronchopleural

Pertaining to bronchi and pleura; A bronchopleural fistula is an abnormal connection between the bronchial tube and the pleural cavity (space). Occurring as a result of lung disease or surgical complication, this can cause an air leak into the pleural space.

bronchiolitis

Inflammation of bronchioles; This is an acute viral infection occurring in infants younger than 18 months of age.

hypercapnia

High carbon dioxide in blood

pneumoconiosis

Condition of dust in lungs

cyanosis

Bluish discoloration; Caused by deficient oxygen in the blood.

epiglottitis

Inflammation of epiglottis; Characterized by fever, sore throat, and an erythematous, swollen epiglottis.

laryngeal

Pertaining to larynx

laryngospasm

Spasm of laryngeal muscles; Spasm of laryngeal muscles that closes the larynx.

lobectomy

Removal of a lobe of the lung; Figure 12-6 shows four different types of pulmonary resections.

mediastinoscopy

Visual examination of mediastinum; An endoscope is inserted through an incision in the chest.

paranasal sinuses

Sinuses near the nose; Para- means near in this term.

nasogastric intubation

Tube from nose to stomach

orthopnea

Difficulty breathing when lying flat; An abnormal condition in which breathing (-pnea) is easier in the upright position. A major cause of orthopnea is congestive heart failure. Physicians assess the degree of orthopnea by the number of pillows a patient requires to sleep comfortably (e.g., two-pillow orthopnea).

hypoxia

Low oxygen in tissues; Tissues have a decreased amount of oxygen, and cyanosis can result.

expectoration

Coughing up secretions; Clearing of secretions from the airway by coughing or spitting. This sputum can contain mucus, blood, cellular debris, pus, and microorganisms.