The radiographic spectrum of pulmonary complications in burn victims

The spectrum of pulmonary complications in 28 of 66 burn victims is analyzed according to time of onset and resultant radiographic features. Immediately recognizable pulmonary abnormalities are usually due to chemical pulmonary edema and inhalation pneumonitis. Complications manifested 2-5 days after injury include pulmonary microembolism, adult respiratory distress syndrome, and atelectasis. Delayed complications are major pulmonary embolism, pneumonia, and adult respiratory distress syndrome. In this series, 25 patients (89%) developing pulmonary complications died. The critical role of serial chest radiographs in the evaluation and management of burn victims is emphasized.