Alveolar ectasia is a medical condition where the air sacs in the lungs become abnormally enlarged. This condition is characterized by a decrease in respiratory function and can lead to shortness of breath and other respiratory complications. Synonyms for alveolar ectasia include air sac enlargement, alveolar dilation, and emphysema. The term emphysema is commonly used to describe the condition, but it is important to note that alveolar ectasia refers specifically to the dilation of the air sacs, whereas emphysema encompasses a range of lung damage and respiratory issues. Other synonyms for alveolar ectasia include bullous emphysema, paraseptal emphysema, and centrilobular emphysema.