[Change in the metabolic functions of the lungs and the content of biologically active substances in the blood of patients with the adult respiratory distress syndrome].

In 48 patients operated on for peritonitis of different etiology the postoperative period was complicated by the onset of adult respiratory distress syndrome. A considerable increase in the blood level of biologically active compounds (adrenalin, noradrenalin, histamine, serotonin) and the activation of kinin system have been observed. Marked humoral shifts trigger a sequence of reactions manifested in microcirculation disturbances and the onset of tissue hypoxia, thus inducing the damage of metabolic lung functions and the development of adult respiratory distress syndrome.