The hepatopulmonary syndrome
Article Abstract:
The hepatopulmonary syndrome may not be well understood; subsequently, treatment options are limited. The hepatopulmonary syndrome involves liver disease, poor oxygenation, and vein dilations within the lungs. The latter may be the defining feature of the syndrome and may be the main cause of low oxygenation. Vein dilations in the lungs may be seen using contrast-enhanced echocardiography, technetium 99m-labeled macroaggregated albumin scanning, and pulmonary arteriography. Lung vein dilations may be caused by increased circulation of a lung vasodilator due to failure of the damaged liver to eliminate lung vasodilators. Liver transplantation may serve to reverse the shunt within the lungs. Low oxygenation may not be a contraindication to liver transplantation.
Publication Name: Annals of Internal Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4819
Year: 1995
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Gene Therapy for Lung Disease: Hype or Hope?
Article Abstract:
Progress on gene therapy for lung disease has been slower than expected, but this may change in the future. Gene therapy could be used for many lung diseases, including cystic fibrosis, alpha (sub 1)-antitrypsin deficiency, lung cancer, malignant mesothelioma, pulmonary inflammation, surfactant deficiency, and pulmonary hypertension. One promising area of research is the development of improved methods for delivery the gene to the lungs. The results of several clinical trials are presented.
Publication Name: Annals of Internal Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4819
Year: 2000
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