[Pathology related to altitude].

Low atmospheric pressure at high altitude causes a reduction of partial oxygen pressure in the air. Resulting hypoxia triggers adaptive mechanisms to maintain oxygen delivery to cells at levels compatible with requirements of the body. Hyperventilation and tachycardia followed by polyglobulia are the main physiological responses. Hypoxia-related events can lead to edema of certain organs. Acute mountain sickness, high altitude pulmonary and cerebral edema are potentially serious disorders in remote areas. Since the only remedy is descending to lower altitudes, early recognition of symptoms while return is still possible is important. Use of a portable hyperbaric chamber can be an alternative if return is impossible. The potentially serious consequences of these diseases and poor effectiveness of treatment modalities underscore the need for prevention. The main preventive measures are screening to identify subjects at risk and providing information to mountaineers.