[Physiopathology and clinical aspects of the alveolar surface active system (pulmonary surfactant)]

Existing knowledge of the pulmonary alveolar surfactant system is summarised in monographic form. Particular attention is directed to its physiopathology, synthesis mechanisms, and pathology in man, as well as to the methods used into its clinical investigation. Stress is laid on the importance of the system in the direct or indirect determination of many cardiac and pneumocardiac diseases. Ways in chich deficiencies on the part of this system can be treated are critically discussed.