Clinical Diagnosis · Respiratory System · Medium
Asbestosis
Meaning: Scarring of the lungs caused by inhaling fibres of a heat-resistant mineral once widely used in building insulation.
In practice: The retired shipyard worker had breathlessness and fine crackles consistent with asbestosis.
Word parts
- -osis means an abnormal condition or process
Many medical words are built from Greek and Latin parts like these, so learning a few helps you work out new terms.
Quick check
Two questions on related clinical diagnosis words.
Which word means: A recurrent, irresistible urge to steal items that are not needed for personal use or money.
Answer: Kleptomania
Which word means: The predicted outcome or likely course of a disease.
Answer: Prognosis
Words like asbestosis come up in the daily game
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