alveoleista

Alveoleista is a Finnish term used in anatomy to refer to alveolar structures, particularly the alveoli of the lungs and the dental alveoli in the jaw. The root is alveolus (Latin), meaning a small hollow cavity; the form alveoleista appears in Finnish phrases describing alveolar systems in plural or in specific grammatical cases.

Pulmonary alveoli are microscopic sacs at the end of the respiratory tree where gas exchange occurs between air and blood. Their walls consist of type I and type II pneumocytes, a thin capillary barrier, and a lining of surfactant that reduces surface tension. Alveoli cluster into sacs and connect through pores that allow airflow; alveolar macrophages patrol for inhaled particles.

Dental alveoli are sockets in the upper and lower jaws that encase tooth roots. They are formed by alveolar bone and are connected to the tooth by the periodontal ligament, which anchors the tooth and allows limited movement. The alveolar process remodels during development, eruption, and orthodontic treatment.

Clinically, alveolar structures are central to respiratory and dental health. Alveolar damage or infection can impair function, as in pneumonia or edema; periodontal disease can affect dental alveoli, and alveolitis is a complication after tooth extraction. Imaging and histology help assess alveolar integrity.

See also: alveolus, alveolar bone, alveolitis, alveolar ventilation.