Pulmonary edema and shock lung: Roentgenographic observations on pathologic fine structure of the lung

Sequence and regularities of fluid accumulation in lung parenchyma are evaluated by correlating (a) roentgenograms in vivo, (b) films of lung specimens fixed in formalin vapor or liquid nitrogen, and (c) microscopic sections. Each stage of the adult respiratory distress syndrome has its own distinctive roentgenographic morphology: interstitial edema, necrosis of the alveolar walls, and fibrosis. Plain films of the thorax from the intensive care unit demonstrate these pathologic changes in a characteristic fashion. An objective interpretation is facilitated. The differential diagnosis of different kinds of pulmonary edema is discussed