An update on the mechanisms of pulmonary oedema formation and reabsorption
Symposium Chairs: J. Hamacher (Homburg, Germany), J. Pittet (San Francisco, United States of America)
Aims: Fluid resorption from the alveolus into the vessels is an inherent biological necessity and a phenomenon which already exists at birth. Molecular mechanisms of the barrier function between vessels and, ultimately, the alveolus, as well as alveolar reabsorption mechanisms, have been elucidated during the past years. At the end of the symposium, the audience should know the basic mechanisms, as well as some of the novel mechanisms, involved in oedema generation and reabsorption and have an idea of the potential role of oedema resorption in acute lung injury and some of the advantages and limitations of today?s potential therapeutics.