PRIMARY PULMONARY EMPHYSEMA IN YOUNG ADULTS

Abstract

Observations are presented on 10 young men with severe pulmonary emphysema. It is emphasized that emphysema can occur in young people. Physical examination usually reveals the characteristic findings of slow expiration and absence of normal breath sounds at the bases. The anteroposterior diameter of the chest may be normal. The chest roentgenogram may be normal in the presence of advanced emphysema. Pulmonary function studies will demonstrate an increased residual volume, uneven distribution of inspired air, and severe restriction of the maximal breathing capacity and maximal expiratory flow rate. It is proposed that the traditional hypothesis to explain the etiology of emphysema does not fit the present series of patients. The writers believe it is more reasonable to postulate an inherent tissue defect which results in the typical changes in the bronchi and in destruction of the alveolar capillary membrane.