Centrilobular Emphysema (Medical Definition) | Quick Explainer Video

Centrilobular emphysema is a form of emphysema that primarily affects the respiratory bronchioles in the center of the lung lobules. This condition is often associated with smoking and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In centrilobular emphysema, the walls of the respiratory bronchioles are destroyed, leading to the formation of enlarged air spaces within the lung tissue. This can result in symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing. Treatment for centrilobular emphysema typically involves quitting smoking, managing symptoms with medication, and pulmonary rehabilitation to improve lung function.