Search

Respiratory system due to its enormous surface is particularly prone to be penetrated by various exogenous factors. Therefore, this system is equipped with numerous local, specific and unspecific, cellular and humoral immunological mechanisms. This system includes: BALT (bronchial ++adeno-lymphatic tissue) producing secretory immunoglobulins, ciliary system, mucus which provides an extracellular surface for immunoglobulins, lysozyne, interferon, lactoferrin, and complement system activities. Moreover, alveolar macrophages, surfactant, neuropeptides, and inflammatory processes constitute other components of the whole defense system. A complex interactions increasing its efficiency take place between particular components. Unfavourable environmental factors attack this system in several ways. The most important are: recurrent bacterial and viral respiratory infections, air pollution, tobacco smoke, and unfavourable climate and microclimate.

Mortality from asthma within 1978-1987 was analysed retrospectively. This analysis included selected factors determining the mortality in this disease. Some conditions being able to decrease death risk in asthmatic patients were defined. The results of autopsies of patients who died from asthma were also analysed with an attempt to interpret those results basing on the selected clinical data. Unified scheme of sampling for pathomorphological examinations was proposed together with proper interpretation of histopathologies in the lungs and myocardium. Presented data are preliminary and will be continued in foreseen prospective studies.