Primary Alveolar Hypoventilation Associated with Western Equine Encephalitis

Abstract

A case of alveolar hypoventilation syndrome and congestive heart failure associated with Western equine encephalitis is presented. It is concluded that chronic hypoventilation was produced by damage to the respiratory center since normal lung volumes and respiratory mechanical properties were demonstrated, and the response to carbon dioxide inhalation was subnormal. The possible relationship of chronic hypercarbia and hypoxemia to congestive heart failure is discussed.