[Correlations between chest X-rays, clinical data, and lung function tests (flow-volume curve) in asbestos workers (author's transl)]. / Corrélations entre les données radiocliniques et fonctionnelles respiratoires (courbe débit-volume) chez les ouvriers d'une usine textile d'amiante.

This study concern 61 asbestos workers, exposed to very dusty conditions, but exposure is stopped for 4 years. Flow-volume curve shows a decrease in flow, at low-volume, particularly in old subjects, with a great dust index. In 13 subjects (21%), with normal chest radiographs, we observe a decrease in flow. This is interpreted as an airway obstruction, and it is an early effect of asbestos exposure. This obstruction concerns the small airways because the Vmax is density independent in the last portion of the VC. Flow-volume curve breathing helium oxygen mixture is not more sensitive, than breathing air. So, this test seems sufficient, to monitor the exposed workers, in epidemiological studies, and prevent repeated chest X-ray examinations which may be dangerous.

[Lesional pulmonary edema]. / L'oedème pulmonaire lésionnel.

The authors having reported all the possible denominations of syndromes of respiratory distress in the adult mention again the main etiologies, stressing on the last ones. They recall afterwards the different clinical, radiological and biological stages of this syndrome. The hemodynamic profile is defined by normal catheterism data and the presence of a true anatomical shunt. On the other hand several hemodynamic variations are possible. The differential diagnosis is essentially cardiac edema. Finally the authors state that treatment is done only by symptomatic therapies: dehydration and assisted ventilation. They do not make use of membrane oxygenator. Assisted ventilation is essential and is mainly based on a good indication and the optimal use of permanent positive pressure.

[Respiratory localizations of Launois-Bensaude symmetrical lipomatosis. Apropos of 3 cases]. / Les localisations respiratoires de la lipomatose symétrique de Launois-Bensaude. A propos de trois cas.

The authors report 3 observations of cervico-facial lipomatosis with mediastinal localization. In the 3 cases the rather unusual localization of Launois and Bensaude's disease produced respiratory troubles which worsened a chronic respiratory insufficiency due to another cause. Once a tracheotomy had to be done because of tracheo-malacia. Another time there was a pharynged localization. This disease etiology always remains obscure, usually appearing in alcoholic addicts of about 50. Mediastinal localizations have been unfrequently described but must be searched for systematically. The evolution is chronic, without specific treatment. If there is already a chronic respiratory insufficiency in relation with a chronic obstructive bronchopneumopathy or a cardiac insufficiency, then the mediastinal localization becomes an aggravating factor.

[Doxapram. Pharmocokinetic and clinical study]. / Le doxapram. Etude pharmacocinétique et clinique.

Two series of work are reported. The first concerns the pharmacocinetic study of the product after it was administered through different ways and the corresponding evolution of PaCO2. The second study concerns the effect on pulmonary arterial pressure, blood gases and some parameters of ventilatory mechanics, of a perfusion of 200 mg of this product over a two hours period.