Ultrastructural study of the destructive and repair processes in pulmonary inflammation and following endobronchial laser therapy

Abstract

Examination of 127 biopsy specimens from 45 patients with inflammatory lung diseases showed changes consistent with increased permeability of the capillary endothelial cells as an initial stage in the development of the inflammatory reaction. Associated interstitial oedema, deformation of the interalveolar septa, and structural disorganization of alveolar epithelium cells occur, and local microcirculatory problems result in tissue hypoxia and fibrosis. The ultimate morphological picture is determined largely by the intensity of repair. Laser biostimulation minimizes the inflammation and stabilizes fibroplastic process.