Neurogenic pulmonary edema in head injuries: analysis of 5 cases.

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.