What does "Atelectasis" mean in a report or doctor's letter? In our medical dictionary, you will find a patient-friendly explanation of the meaning of this medical term.
Atelectasis is a condition where a part or all of a lung collapses, preventing the air from reaching the tiny air sacs at the end of the breathing tubes. This can happen if something blocks the air passages or if pressure outside the lung keeps it from expanding. It can be caused by a variety of things like a tumor, a large amount of mucus, or pressure from outside the lung. It can make it hard to breathe and can lead to other problems like pneumonia.
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