[Cytological characteristics, elemental composition of alveolar macrophages from bronchoalveolar lavage, lung pathology in liquidators of the consequences of the accident at the Chernobyl power plant].

Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), broncho- and transbronchial biopsies were examined in Chernobyl wreckers eleven years after the accident. Cytologically and electron-microscopically, there was predominance of alveolar macrophages (AM) with many cytoplasmic foreign bodies containing clear needle-like crystals. Roentgenospectral analysis and laser mass-spectrometry revealed chemical elements which are part of non-active "hot particles" (Al, Si, Ca, Fe) as well as reactor fuel elements and the station constructive materials which are the active part of "hot particles". Programmed BALF allowed to decrease cytosis and the amount of AM containing foreign-body particles as well as concentration of the majority of chemical elements in AM.