Scanning electron microscopic ultrastructural alterations of the pulmonary alveolus in experimental drowning

Scanning electron microscopic structural and ultrastructural alterations of alveolar wall in experimental drowning are described. The results obtained confirm the literature's data. Peculiar microlesions affecting Type I alveolar cells, the basement membrane, and sometimes the capillary endothelium could also be observed. Finally, Type II alveolar cells show alterations which could be related with a possible direct action of the drowning liquid.