Word: Bronchiolitis Obliterans
Part of Speech: Noun
Pronunciation: /ˌbrɒŋ.ki.əˈlaɪ.tɪs ˌɒb.lɪˈtɛə.rænz/
Rhymes with: itis clears, arrears

Definition

Bronchiolitis obliterans is a rare and severe lung condition characterized by inflammation and fibrosis (scarring) of the bronchioles (the smallest airways in the lungs). This condition leads to narrowing or obstruction of these airways, resulting in symptoms such as:

• Persistent coughing
• Wheezing
• Progressive shortness of breath

It is often associated with exposure to toxic gases, chemical irritants, or severe lung infections. Additionally, it can develop as a complication of lung transplantation or autoimmune diseases.

Alternative Name: Popcorn Lung
This nickname arose after cases of bronchiolitis obliterans were identified among workers exposed to diacetyl vapor, a chemical used in flavoring microwave popcorn.

Etymology

• Bronchiolitis: Derived from bronchiole (small airways in the lungs) and -itis (inflammation).
• Obliterans: From Latin obliterare, meaning to erase or destroy, referencing the obliteration (narrowing or scarring) of the bronchioles.

The term first appeared in medical literature in the early 20th century, describing lung damage related to infections and toxic exposures.

Meaning and Use

Medical Context:
Bronchiolitis obliterans is primarily used in medical discussions, focusing on its causes, symptoms, and treatments. It is also studied in relation to occupational hazards, such as chemical exposure, and post-transplant complications.

Example Sentences:

• The patient’s persistent cough and difficulty breathing were diagnosed as bronchiolitis obliterans after exposure to toxic fumes.
• Lung transplant recipients are at higher risk of developing bronchiolitis obliterans as a long-term complication.

Common Causes of Bronchiolitis Obliterans

1. Toxic Gas Inhalation:
   • Exposure to chemical vapors like diacetyl (used in food flavoring), ammonia, or chlorine.
2. Severe Infections:
   • Viral or bacterial infections such as adenovirus, RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), or pneumonia.
3. Lung Transplantation:
   • Often seen in patients as a form of chronic rejection after a lung transplant.
4. Autoimmune Diseases:
   • Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or scleroderma may trigger this disorder.

Treatment and Management

• Medications:
  • Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.
  • Immunosuppressive drugs for transplant-related cases.
• Oxygen Therapy:
  • To manage breathing difficulties in severe cases.
• Lung Transplantation:
  • In advanced stages where significant lung damage has occurred.

Synonyms

• Popcorn lung
• Obliterative bronchiolitis
• Constrictive bronchiolitis

Examples in Medical Literature

1. 1907:
   “The first case terminated fatally at the end of twenty-six days and presented the characteristic lesions of bronchiolitis obliterans.”
   • General Medicine in Pract. Med. Series
2. 1924:
   “The French mention cicatricial changes in the lungs, bronchiolitis obliterans, and bronchiectasis as later after-effects of gassing in trench warfare.”
   • The Lancet
3. 2007:
   “Usually only found in people who are poisoned by chemical fires or chemical warfare, bronchiolitis obliterans renders its victims unable to exert even a little energy without becoming winded or faint.”
   • New York Times

Pronunciation

Bronchiolitis obliterans is pronounced as:
/ˌbrɒŋ.ki.əˈlaɪ.tɪs ˌɒb.lɪˈtɛə.rænz/

Conclusion

Bronchiolitis obliterans is a rare but serious lung disease that highlights the delicate nature of our respiratory system. Often associated with environmental or occupational hazards, its severity underscores the importance of preventive measures and early diagnosis. Understanding its causes and implications helps patients and medical professionals navigate its challenges effectively, ensuring better health outcomes.