Question

which term means \the progressive, long - term loss of lung function: decrease in number of alveoli, enlargement of remaining alveoli, and destruction of walls of alveoli usually caused by smoking\? pulmonary edema emphysema pneumonia

Explanation:

• Pulmonary edema: It is the accumulation of fluid in the lungs, not related to the described alveoli - related changes.
• Emphysema: This condition is characterized by the progressive, long - term loss of lung function (due to a decrease in the number of alveoli), enlargement of the remaining alveoli, and destruction of the walls of alveoli. Smoking is a major cause of emphysema as the toxins in smoke damage the alveolar structure over time.
• Pneumonia: It is an infection (usually bacterial or viral) that causes inflammation in the lungs, often with symptoms like fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. It is not related to the described long - term, structural alveolar changes.

Answer:

emphysema