MCQ IN MEDICINE

Detailed explanation-1: -Atelectasis is defined as diminished volume affecting all or part of a lung. It is a partial or complete collapse of the entire lung or a specific area, or lobe, of the lung (collapsed lung). Atelectasis occurs when the alveoli (small air sacs) within the lung become deflated or fill with alveolar fluid.

Detailed explanation-2: -Atelectasis is caused by a blockage of the air passages (bronchus or bronchioles) or by pressure on the outside of the lung. Atelectasis is not the same as another type of collapsed lung called pneumothorax, which occurs when air escapes from the lung.

Detailed explanation-3: -The term atelectasis can also be used to describe the collapse of a previously inflated lung, either partially or fully, because of specific respiratory disorders. There are three major types of atelectasis: adhesive, compressive, and obstructive.