[Pleural involvement in patients with chronic bronchitis]

The extension and pathogenetic role of pleural changes in the development of unspecific chronic pulmonary diseases in 146 workers of different professional groups suffering of chronic bronchitis, were investigated. Ultrasonography and roentgenography were used. The functional state of the lungs was evaluated by means of spirographic and radiological methods. It is concluded that pleural changes are an endogenous risk factor in the development of chronic unspecific pulmonary diseases.