Bronchialis

Bronchialis is the Latin adjective meaning "of the bronchus" and is used in anatomical terminology to describe structures associated with the bronchial tree. In English-language texts, bronchialis appears mainly in Latinized names such as arteria bronchialis (bronchial artery), vena bronchialis (bronchial vein), and nervus bronchialis (bronchial nerve).

Bronchial arteries are part of the systemic circulation and provide the oxygenated blood supply to the walls of the trachea and bronchi, as well as to surrounding connective tissue and the visceral pleura. They typically originate from the thoracic aorta or from intercostal arteries, and there is usually one right and one to two left arteries with variable anatomy. Bronchial veins drain into the azygos and hemiazygos systems, with some drainage to the pulmonary veins.

The bronchial circulation operates at higher pressure than the pulmonary circulation, which is dedicated to gas exchange. It is important for airway wall nutrition and defense. In chronic lung disease, bronchial arteries may become enlarged and prone to erosion, leading to hemoptysis. The bronchial system therefore has clinical relevance in conditions such as chronic infections, bronchiectasis, and malignancy.