atelectasis

noun

Meaning

The partial or complete collapse of a lung or a lobe of a lung, occurring when the tiny air sacs (alveoli) within the lung deflate.

Examples

  • Prolonged bed rest following an operation is a common cause of atelectasis.
  • The chest X-ray confirmed that the patient was experiencing mild atelectasis in the lower right lobe.

Synonyms: lung collapse, pulmonary collapse, alveolar collapse, lung deflation