Final answer:
The abnormal accumulation of air in pulmonary tissues, which causes overdistention of alveolar spaces, is referred to as emphysema, a condition primarily caused by smoking.
Step-by-step explanation:
The abnormal accumulation of air in pulmonary tissues, resulting in the overdistention of alveolar spaces, is known as emphysema. Emphysema is a chronic lung disease predominantly caused by smoking tobacco and is characterized by the destruction of alveolar walls. This leads to a decreased surface area for gas exchange, an increased compliance of the lungs, and trapped air after exhalation. As the alveolar walls get damaged, lung elastic recoil decreases due to a loss of elastic fibers, and this damage is not curable. Patients typically experience shortness of breath, chronic cough, and wheezing, especially during expiration.