Term: Mucociliary
Definition: Mucociliary refers to the combined action of mucus and cilia (tiny hair-like structures) in the respiratory tract that work together to trap and remove inhaled particles, pathogens, and debris from the airways.
Phonetic Pronunciation: (myoo-koh-SIL-ee-air-ee)
Etymological Origin: The term "mucociliary" is derived from the Latin word mucus (meaning "slime" or "mucus") and the Latin word cilium (meaning "eyelash," referring to the hair-like structures). The suffix -ary indicates "pertaining to."
Significance in Asbestos Context: The mucociliary system is a critical defense mechanism in the respiratory tract, helping to clear inhaled asbestos fibers and other harmful particles. However, asbestos fibers can overwhelm or bypass this system due to their size and shape, leading to their retention in the lungs and subsequent health issues such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Smoking can further impair mucociliary clearance, exacerbating the risks associated with asbestos exposure.
Synonyms or Related Terms: Mucociliary clearance, respiratory defense mechanism, ciliary action.
Example Sentence: "The mucociliary system plays a vital role in protecting the lungs, but its effectiveness can be compromised by smoking or high levels of asbestos exposure."
Common Misconceptions:
