[Chronic obstructive bronchitis: its pathogenetic aspects and the characteristics of its clinical course].

Lipid peroxidation (LPO) and antioxidant system (AOS) were examined in 40 inpatients with chronic obstructive bronchitis (COB) on conventional treatment. The above parameters were considered in relation to clinical picture. It is shown that inflammation in the bronchial tree is associated with AOS functional deterioration and marked LPO intensification. A correlation was established between LPO activity, concentration of alpha-tocopherol in red cell membrane and degree of bronchial obstruction as well as remission quality. Persistent high intensity of LPO is suggested as an underlying cause of the disease transition to chronic form and progression of bronchial obstruction. Basing on the above observations, the authors insist on antioxidants introduction in COB treatment.