Bronchioler
Bronchioler is not a standard term in modern anatomy, but it is sometimes encountered as a reference to the bronchioles, the small airways of the lungs. Bronchioles form the distal portion of the airway tree, bridging the bronchi with the alveolar ducts and sacs where gas exchange occurs. The bronchiolar system includes terminal bronchioles, and in some regions the respiratory bronchioles, which bear alveolar outgrowths.
Anatomy and histology: Bronchioles lack cartilage and glands in their walls. They are lined by a ciliated
Function: The bronchioles primarily conduct air to the gas-exchange regions of the lung and regulate airflow
Development and clinical significance: Bronchiolar development begins during fetal life and continues after birth as the
Terminology: Bronchioles are the standard term for these small airways; bronchiolar describes their relating to bronchioles.