Pulmonary edema at high altitude. Review, pathophysiology, and update.

In summary, recent data suggest that HAPE is a permeability type of edema characterized by an influx of cells (primarily alveolar macrophages) and an increased protein concentration when compared with that of controls. A modest inflammatory response may be mitigated by the presence of an inhibitor to neutrophil chemotaxis. Further information would be helpful to document the course of the disease from its early and more subtle manifestations to its severe clinical form. In addition, insight into the role of biochemical mediators may lead to a better understanding and hence, to prevention and treatment of this potentially fatal disease. However, identity of the event or mediator which initiates the leak remains a mystery.