Mucociliary

Term: MucociliaryDefinition: The mucociliary clearance mechanism involves the coordinated movement of cilia on the respiratory epithelium, which propels mucus and trapped particles, including asbestos fibers, out of the lungs.Phonetic Pronunciation: (myoo-koh-SIL-ee-air-ee)Origin: The term "mucociliary" is derived from the Latin words "mucus," meaning slime or nasal mucus, and "cilium," meaning eyelash, reflecting the components involved in this biological mechanism. This term has been used in medical literature since the early 20th century to describe the function of the respiratory tract.Significance in Asbestos Context: Mucociliary clearance is crucial in the context of asbestos exposure as it serves as the primary defense mechanism to remove inhaled asbestos fibers from the lungs. However, prolonged exposure to asbestos can impair this clearance, leading to the accumulation of fibers and increasing the risk of asbestos-related diseases.Example Sentence: In individuals exposed to asbestos, the efficiency of the mucociliary clearance can be compromised, leading to a higher retention of asbestos fibers in the lungs.Related Terms: Cilia, Respiratory Epithelium, Asbestos Fibers, Lung Clearance, MucusNotes: - Mucociliary clearance is not the only defense mechanism against inhaled particles; other immune responses also play a role. - The effectiveness of mucociliary clearance can vary among individuals, influenced by factors such as smoking and underlying health conditions.