Pediatric lung diseases. Task Force on Research and Education for the Prevention and Control of Respiratory Diseases.
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Biomedical subjects
Publications and source records attributed to G Loughlin.
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Seventeen boys and 19 girls, 8-15 yr in age, were studied to ascertain, in the two sex groups, the predictors of airway size [assessed by measurement of tracheal cross-sectional area (CSA) and maximal expiratory flows (Vmax)] and the relative rates of growth of the major divisions of the airways and lung parenchyma. In boys, total lung capacity (TLC) accounted for 77% of the variance of CSA and for 66% of the variability of Vmax. In contrast, somatic growth and maturation in girls accounted for only 45% of the variance of CSA and for 64% of the variability of Vmax; TLC was relatively unimportant. In boys, but not in girls, TLC-corrected CSA was significantly and inversely related to height and to TLC. In girls, TLC-corrected Vmax at 50 and 75% of forced vital capacity were directly related to height. These observations suggest different patterns of airway-parenchymal-somatic growth relationships in the two sexes. Furthermore, parenchymal growth appears to be the best determinant of airway growth in boys. In girls, other factors, perhaps genetic in nature, besides growth of parenchyma, may help determine airway size.
Congestive heart failure in neonatal thyrotoxicosis is attributed to sympathetic overstimulation of the myocardium with resulting high-output cardiac failure. An additional case of neonatal thyrotoxicosis with congestive heart failure is discussed; three possible causes (thyrotoxicosis, maternal propranolol therapy, and ventricular septal defect) were present. Along with the usual procedures, the echocardiogram is of value in separating these factors. In addition, we discuss the potential dangers to the newborn of a mother receiving long-term propranolol hydrochloride therapy during pregnancy.