atelectasis

[at-l-ek-tuh-sis]

noun

Pathology.

1. incomplete expansion of the lungs at birth, as from lack of breathing force.

2. collapse of the lungs, as from bronchial obstruction.

atelectasis

/ ˌætəˈlɛktəsɪs /

noun

1. failure of the lungs to expand fully at birth

2. collapse of the lung or a part of the lung, usually caused by bronchial obstruction

Other Word Forms

• atelectatic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of atelectasis¹

1855–60; < New Latin; ateliosis + Greek éktasis a stretching out, equivalent to ek- ec- + ta-, variant stem of teínein to stretch + -sis -sis

Word History and Origins

Origin of atelectasis¹

C19: New Latin, from Greek atelēs imperfect + ektasis extension

Example Sentences

These result in part from the mechanical obstruction offered to the function of parts beyond the seat of obstruction, as pulmonary atelectasis; and in part from the changes taking place in the retained product.

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Researchers found the infant's lungs showed signs of "pulmonary atelectasis, congestion, mild alveolar hemorrhage, and histiocytosis" as well as numerous other problems.

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It produces atelectasis followed by progressive necrosis of lung tissue with gradual liquefaction of the parenchyma.

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Obstructive foreign bodies cause atelectasis, drowned lung, and eventually pulmonary abscess.

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When a bronchus is completely obstructed by the bulk of the foreign body itself immediate removal is urgently demanded to prevent serious lung changes, resulting from atelectasis and want of drainage.

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