Pulmonary manifestations of gastrointestinal disease

The respiratory and gastrointestinal systems share several functional similarities. In health, the two systems remain structurally distinct and functionally integrated, so as to maintain physiologic homeostasis. However, in the setting of disease, pathophysiologic alterations in one system may be reflected in the other. This article focuses upon the nonmalignant gastrointestinal causes of respiratory illness. Using an anatomic approach, the pulmonary manifestations of selected gastrointestinal diseases are outlined. Emphasis is placed on the distinguishing features, pathophysiology, and therapy of the pulmonary sequelae of digestive diseases.