what is the morphology of emphysema?
Morphology of Emphysema—croscopic and Microscopic Features Emphysema is a chronic lung condition under the umbrella of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease ( COPD ), defined by permanent enlargement of airspaces distal to the terminal bronchioles, along with destruction of alveolar wawalls d no obvious fibrosis. Here’s a breakdown of its morphology , both gross (macroscopic) and microscopic . Microscopic (Histological) Features of Emphysema 1. Destruction of Alveolar Walls Loss of alveolar septa , resulting in abnormally large air spaces . Fewer capillaries → reduced surface area for gas exchange . 2. Enlarged Alveolar Spaces Abnormally dilated air sacs (alveoli, alveolar ducts, and respiratory bronchioles). Loss of the normal architecture of the lung parenchyma. 3. Thinned and Ruptured Alveolar Septa No significant fibrosis (distinguishing it from other interstitial lung diseases). 4. Airspace Coalescence Adjacent alveoli merge due to septal destructio...