Definition

A medical condition where the bronchial tubes in the lungs become permanently widened, leading to breathing difficulties and increased risk of infections.

Example

The doctor diagnosed her with bronchiectasis after reviewing her symptoms and medical history.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of bronchiectasis?

No, I haven't. What is it?

It's a condition where the bronchial tubes are chronically dilated, making it hard to breathe.

That sounds serious! I hope it’s manageable for those affected.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bronchiectasis is formed from "bronchus" (from Greek "bronchos", meaning windpipe or airway) and "ectasis" (from Greek "ektasis", meaning stretching or dilation). The term describes a condition characterized by the abnormal dilation of the bronchi, which are the air passages of the lungs.

Memory Tip

Think of 'bronchus' as the airway and 'ectasis' as stretching — bronchiectasis refers to the stretching or dilation of the air passages in the lungs.

Visually Confused Words