<P> In rounded atelectasis (Folded lung or Blesovsky syndrome), an outer portion of the lung slowly collapses as a result of scarring and shrinkage of the membrane layers covering the lungs (pleura), which would show as visceral pleural thickening and entrapment of lung tissue . This produces a rounded appearance on x-ray that doctors may mistake for a tumor . Rounded atelectasis is usually a complication of asbestos - induced disease of the pleura, but it may also result from other types of chronic scarring and thickening of the pleura . </P> <P> Treatment is directed at correcting the underlying cause . Post-surgical atelectasis is treated by physiotherapy, focusing on deep breathing and encouraging coughing . An incentive spirometer is often used as part of the breathing exercises . Walking is also highly encouraged to improve lung inflation . People with chest deformities or neurologic conditions that cause shallow breathing for long periods may benefit from mechanical devices that assist their breathing . One method is continuous positive airway pressure, which delivers pressurized air or oxygen through a nose or face mask to help ensure that the alveoli do not collapse, even at the end of a breath . This is helpful, as partially inflated alveoli can be expanded more easily than collapsed alveoli . Sometimes additional respiratory support is needed with a mechanical ventilator . </P> <P> The primary treatment for acute massive atelectasis is correction of the underlying cause . A blockage that cannot be removed by coughing or by suctioning the airways often can be removed by bronchoscopy . Antibiotics are given for an infection . Chronic atelectasis is often treated with antibiotics because infection is almost inevitable . In certain cases, the affected part of the lung may be surgically removed when recurring or chronic infections become disabling or bleeding is significant . If a tumor is blocking the airway, relieving the obstruction by surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or laser therapy may prevent atelectasis from progressing and recurrent obstructive pneumonia from developing . </P>

What is meant by the term lobe of the lung