Effect of major burns on alveolar-epithelial permeability in rabbits

To evaluate the effect of major surface burns on pulmonary epithelial permeability, the authors studied 8 rabbits. After a 60-min baseline period, a 40% body surface area burn was inflicted. Permeability was assessed by following the rate of passage of 2 radiolabeled tracers from alveoli to arterial blood (125I antipyrene, 51Cr EDTA) and correlated with dynamic compliance, airflow resistance, blood pressure, heart rate, and arterial blood gases. Although dynamic compliance and the pH declined and airflow resistance increased (p less than 0.05), there was no significant change in permeability or P(A-a)O2. The authors conclude that extensive surface burns produce alterations in pulmonary mechanics and arterial pH which are not associated with increased alveolar epithelial permeability.