Neurogenic pulmonary edema: new concepts of an old disorder

Neurogenic pulmonary edema remains an enigmatic disorder that may be difficult to diagnose. Initial roentgenographic findings may suggest the diagnosis in previously unsuspected cases when the clinician is aware of the entity and its pathologic findings. The only radiologic clue may be very homogeneous consolidation with prominent air bronchograms, findings that would be unusual in cardiogenic pulmonary edema. The precise pathogenetic mechanisms remain speculative.