[Parasites of the respiratory system: research and significance (author's transl)]

A review is made of the methods of diagnosing both autochthonous and exotic protozoal and helminthic diseases of the respiratory system. Referring to protozooses, recent findings on respiratory pathology due to amoebae of the genus Acanthamoeba are commented, and modern methods are discussed of checking for Pneumocystis carinii in the patient, not just on autopsy material. Referring to helminthiases, in addition to pulmonary echinococcosis which is of prevalent interest in Italy, attention is also given to the pathology of migrant larvae of nematodes. Finally, the role of some microscopic mites in the pathogenesis of respiratory allergic disease from house dust is discussed.