Aspiration of solid food particles into lungs of patients with gastroesophageal reflux and chronic bronchial disease.

The existence of a relationship between upper digestive tract impairment and respiratory disturbance is generally accepted. The aim of this study was to determine whether pulmonary aspiration, documented by labeled meal and lung scans, could be a contributory factor. Thirty-two patients with chronic respiratory complaints (19 men, 13 women, mean age: 57.

[Impact of atmospheric pollution on the lung].

Longitudinal studies on the effects of atmospheric pollutants on the respiratory system have yielded conflicting conclusions. Socio-economic situation, cigarette smoking and chronic diseases must be taken in account in this multifactorial problem. Nevertheless, evidence has been accumulating that exposure brings a consistent rise in the frequency of chest conditions.

[Gastroesophageal reflux and nocturnal broncho-aspiration in chronic bronchopathies].

Although the relationship between chronic bronchopathies and gastro-esophageal reflux is known, the existence and role of nocturnal broncho-aspiration is controversial. 32 patients with chronic bronchopathy and 13 controls without digestive or respiratory symptoms were studied. Nocturnal broncho-aspiration was diagnosed by the demonstration of vegetable fibers in the morning expectorate and by the presence of radioactive pulmonary foci 15 hours following an isotopic meal.