Respirology : official journal of the Asian Pacific Society of Respirology
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Comparative Study
Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-1 and 2 in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid in pulmonary sarcoidosis.
Pulmonary sarcoidosis (PS) is characterized by the formation of granulomas in the lungs and has been associated with infection by microorganisms. Triggering receptor expressed on the surface of myeloid cells (TREM)-1 is overexpressed in response to infection while TREM-2 is involved in granuloma formation. We hypothesized that these receptors are overexpressed in PS and might be useful for diagnostic testing. ⋯ Increased TREM-1 and TREM-2 cell surface expression is observed in sarcoidosis. Evaluation of BAL cell expression of both of these receptors may serve as a diagnostic marker for sarcoidosis.
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Comparative Study
Alveolar nitric oxide concentration reflects peripheral airway obstruction in stable asthma.
Increased fraction of exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) has been shown to reflect airway inflammation in asthma. Central airway NO flux (J'awNO; nL/s) and peripheral airway/alveolar NO concentration (CANO; ppb) can be calculated separately. CANO has been reported to reflect small airway inflammation. The aim of the present study is to correlate CANO levels with clinical and physiological parameters in patients with stable asthma. ⋯ CANO(TMAD) may be a more specific marker of peripheral airway obstruction than FeNO and J'awNO(TMAD) in stable asthma.
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Multicenter Study Comparative Study
Bronchoscopic practice in Japan: a survey by the Japan Society for Respiratory Endoscopy in 2010.
To ensure the safety of bronchoscopic practice, the Japan Society for Respiratory Endoscopy conducted a national survey to investigate the current state of procedure for this technique. ⋯ Japan-specific characteristics of bronchoscopic practice were identified. Whether procedures used in Japan meet international guidelines with respect to safety should be monitored continuously. In addition, a Japanese evidence-based consensus is needed.
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Despite 50-60% of intensive care patients demonstrating evidence of pleural effusions, there has been little emphasis placed on the role of effusions in the aetiology of weaning failure. Critical illness and mechanical ventilation lead to multiple perturbations of the normal physiological processes regulating pleural fluid homeostasis, and consequently, failure of normal pleural function occurs. Effusions can lead to deleterious effects on respiratory mechanics and gas exchange, and when extensive, may lead to haemodynamic compromise. ⋯ The effects on respiratory mechanics are less clear, possibly reflecting heterogeneity of underlying pathology. Limited data on clinical outcome from pleural fluid drainage exist; however, it appears to be a safe procedure with a low risk of major complications. The current level of evidence would support a clinical trial to determine whether the systematic detection and drainage of pleural effusions improve clinical outcomes.