[Asphyxic pulmonary edema caused by upper airway obstruction in adults]

A case of pulmonary oedema following acute pharyngo-laryngeal obstruction is reported. The case is compared with the results of the literature. The haemodynamic data suggested a non-cardiogenic effect, with low pulmonary arterial occlusion pressure of 1 mmHg and right-to-left shunting. Positive end-expiratory pressure was used with success. The mechanisms underlying such oedema are not well known, and may include disturbances in the balance of transpulmonary forces or hypoxia. However the outcome is usually favourable.