Definition:
Fibrosis is the formation of excess fibrous connective tissue in an organ or tissue, often as a reparative or pathological response to injury or chronic inflammation.
Phonetic Pronunciation:
(fy-BROH-sis)
Etymological Origin:
The term "fibrosis" originates from the Latin word "fibra," meaning "fiber," and the Greek suffix "-osis," which indicates a condition or process. It was first used in medical contexts in the 19th century to describe tissue changes involving fibrous tissue.
Significance in Asbestos Context:
Fibrosis is a key pathological feature of asbestosis, a chronic lung disease caused by prolonged inhalation of asbestos fibers. In the context of asbestos exposure, fibrosis refers to the scarring and thickening of lung tissue, which impairs respiratory function. The presence of fibrosis is often used as evidence in medical diagnoses and legal cases to establish the health impacts of asbestos exposure. It is also a critical factor in understanding the progression of asbestos-related diseases.
Synonyms or Related Terms:
Example Sentence:
"The pathologist identified fibrosis in the lung tissue, a hallmark of asbestosis caused by prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers."
Common Misconceptions:
