Which respiratory disease is characterized by over-expansion and destruction of the alveoli?

Emphysema is characterized by the over-expansion and destruction of the alveoli, which are the tiny air sacs in the lungs responsible for gas exchange. In emphysema, the walls between the alveoli become damaged and lose their elasticity, leading to the enlargement of the air spaces and a decrease in the surface area available for oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange. This results in difficulty breathing and reduced oxygen supply to the body's tissues.

The pathophysiology of emphysema often involves chronic exposure to irritants, most notably cigarette smoke, which leads to inflammation and eventually the breakdown of lung tissue. As the condition progresses, individuals may experience symptoms such as chronic cough, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

Understanding this condition is crucial for coders, as it influences treatment options and patient care strategies. In contrast, other respiratory diseases mentioned do not primarily focus on the destruction of alveoli. For instance, bronchitis typically involves inflammation of the bronchial tubes, pneumonia is an infection of the lung tissue, and asthma is characterized by airway constriction and inflammation, rather than alveolar destruction.