A 68-yeаr оld mаn whо hаs been a smоker most of his life seeks medical attention for severe dyspnea. Upon physical examination, the patient is noted to be afebrile and otherwise healthy. Chest X-rays and CT scans suggest that the patient's lungs are enlarged due to altered lung structure consistent with emphysema. Histologic examination of a lung biopsy from the suspicious area reveals the presence of enlarged, dysfunctional, but empty, alveolar spaces. There is no evidence of malignancy. Which of the following is correct about the patient's condition?