A morphologic anomaly of the lungs of new-born infants has been described. It is commonly associated with atelectasis and can be responsible for atelectasis. These two conditions are often confused. It is suggested that this anomaly is an expression of retardation in normal alveolar development. It may lead to death by asphyxia, and children who survive seem unusually susceptible to pneumonia. The etiology is unknown. The term "congenital alveolar dysplasia of the lungs" has been suggested to designate this form of anomaly involving pulmonary alveoli.
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