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Respiratory Aspiration of Stomach Contents
Abstract
The aspiration of stomach contents is a common clinical problem of concern to all physicians. Its consequences are varied, depending on the amount and distribution of the aspirate, its pH, and the presence or absence of food, particulate matter, and bacteria. Because multiple factors are involved, aspiration of stomach contents can lead to several distinct syndromes of pulmonary injury, all of which unfortunately have been labeled "aspiration pneumonitis." We review the pathophysiology of each of these syndromes and discuss important diagnostic and therapeutic consequences.
Article and Author Information
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▸From the Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Medicine, and the Department of Anesthesiology, University of Florida College of Medicine; Gainesville, Florida.
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Grant support: in part by the Florida Lung Association, and by Public Health Service Pulmonary Academic Award K07 HL00122 from the National Heart and Lung Institute.
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▸Requests for reprints should be addressed to James W. Wynne, M.D.; Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Medicine, J. Hillis Miller Health Center, Box J-225; Gainesville, FL 32610.
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- Received September 9, 1976.
- Accepted January 7, 1977.
