Neurogenic pulmonary edema in head injuries： analysis of 5 cases
摘要
Objective: To review the pathophysiology and study the diagnosis and clinical management of neurogenic pulmonary edema (NPE). Methods: The data of 5 patients who developed NPE after head injury treated in our hospital form December 1995 to May 2003 were collected and analyzed.Results: The patients developed dyspnea and respiratory failure 2-8 hours after neurologic event. Four of the 5 patients presented with pink frothy sputum. Chest radiography showed bilateral diffuse infiltrations in all the 5 patients. After supportive measures such as oxygen support and pharmacologic therapy, 4 patients recovered in 72 hours and one patient died. Conclusions: The pathophysiologic mechanisms of NPE is unclear. In acute respiratory failure following head injury, NPE must be given much attention and timely and effective measures should be taken.