OBSERVATIONS ON THE PATHOLOGIC PHYSIOLOGY OF CHRONIC PULMONARY EMPHYSEMA

Abstract

The object of this paper is to record the results obtained from experiments on two patients with chronic pulmonary emphysema, of the so-called "large lunged" type. The work was undertaken in an effort to ascertain facts which might lead to a clearer appreciation of the disturbance in respiratory physiology in emphysema. The gross and microscopic appearance of the lungs in this condition is well defined; also the impediment to the mechanics of respiration afforded by the loss of the elastic tissue of the lungs is appreciated. Further investigation, however, is necessary to show to what extent the degenerative process interferes with the aeration of the blood and the manner in which the body adapts itself to the altered conditions. The work of Siebeck,¹ Porges, Leimdorfer and Markovivi,² Hoover³ and others established the fact that the residual air and the functional dead space are increased, while the vital capacity is much