panlobular emphysema
Quick Summary
Panlobular emphysema is a form of pulmonary emphysema characterized by the destruction of alveolar walls throughout the lobule of the lung. This irreversible condition leads to abnormally large air spaces and a reduced surface area for gas exchange (oxygen and carbon dioxide).12
Key features include:
* Pathology: Destruction of alveolar walls and capillaries.2
* Cause: While it can occur in smokers, it is characteristically found in patients with a deficiency of the enzyme alpha-1 antitrypsin.1
* Symptoms: Shortness of breath, especially during exertion, and reduced lung elasticity.1
* Consequences: Can lead to impaired ventilatory ability, hypoxemia, and potentially right ventricular heart failure.1
Emphysema often coexists with chronic bronchitis, forming chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).2
Ask Britannica AI about this topic
Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.
