Abdominal mesothelioma induced by occupational asbestos exposure.

Asbestos bodies were demonstrated within an abdominal mesothelioma, proving the tumour-inductive role of asbestos fibres. Asbestos fibres were also found earlier in a case of bile duct carcinoma (17).

Forced oscillatory impedance of the respiratory system at low frequencies.

Respiratory mechanical impedances were determined during voluntary apnea in five healthy subjects, by means of 0.25- to 5-Hz pseudo/random oscillations applied at the mouth. The total respiratory impedance was partitioned into pulmonary (ZL) and chest wall components with the esophageal balloon technique; corrections were made for the upper airway shunt impedance and the compressibility of alveolar gas.

Changes in clinical status and lung functions of patients with chronic respiratory diseases over 10 years.

After a period of 10 years the authors reexamined the respiratory health status of 381 dust-exposed males. Of the lung function values examined Raw, RV/TLC%, VC, TGV and PaO2 were found to be of significant prognostic importance. Among the radiological changes characteristic of silicosis the most serious B-C category, among the respiratory complaints dyspnoea accompanied by regular cough and expectoration, and among the physical changes extended rhonchi and rales accompanied by an emphysematous thorax are to be considered as most essential with respect to prognosis.