What condition is characterized by the breakdown of alveolar walls, leading to larger but fewer alveoli?

The condition characterized by the breakdown of alveolar walls, resulting in larger but fewer alveoli, is emphysema. In this disease, the alveoli, which are crucial for gas exchange in the lungs, undergo damage due to long-term exposure to irritants such as tobacco smoke or air pollution. The destruction of these walls reduces the surface area available for gas exchange, which can lead to difficulties in breathing and decreased oxygen supply to the body.

The main feature of emphysema is the loss of elastic tissue in the lungs, making it harder for the lungs to recoil and expel air, which can lead to trapped air and difficulty exhaling. This condition falls under the broader umbrella of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), but it specifically refers to the alveolar damage that occurs, differentiating it from conditions like chronic bronchitis, where inflammation of the airways is more prominent. Understanding emphysema's pathology highlights the importance of alveolar integrity in maintaining effective respiratory function.