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Persistent localized pulmonary interstitial emphysema and lymphangiectasia: a causal relationship?
Pediatrics
|August 1, 1979
Summary
Persistent pulmonary interstitial emphysema in neonates under assisted ventilation is unexplained. Air dissecting into dilated lymphatics may cause emphysematous lymphangiectasia, fixing the lung in an emphysematous state.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Neonatal Pathology
- Respiratory Physiology
Background:
- Persistent regional pulmonary interstitial emphysema is a rare complication of assisted ventilation in neonates.
- The underlying mechanism causing lobar hyperinflation and failure of air escape remains unclear.
Observation:
- Histologic examination of resected lung tissue from two neonates was performed.
- The tissue exhibited interstitial emphysema under tension.
Findings:
- Air was observed dissecting from interstitial connective tissue into markedly dilated lymphatic vessels.
- This suggests a process of emphysematous lymphangiectasia.
Implications:
- Intralymphatic air dissection may explain the persistent emphysematous state.
- Understanding this mechanism could inform management strategies for neonatal respiratory distress.