Respiratory mechanics and pleural remodelling in pleurodesis induced by barium sulphate

Respir Physiol Neurobiol. 2004 Feb 25;139(3):271-80. doi: 10.1016/j.resp.2003.10.008.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine whether an intrapleural injection of barium sulphate would produce pleurodesis in rats. Additionally, respiratory mechanics and pleural remodelling were analysed. Single intrapleural injection of barium sulphate (100%) or saline was given to Wistar rats. Respiratory system, lung, and chest wall elastic, resistive and viscoelastic/inhomogeneous pressures were measured by the end-inflation occlusion method at 2 and 30 days after injection. The pleura were examined for gross and histopathological evidence of pleural inflammation and fibrosis, and the underlying lungs were also studied by morphometry. All pulmonary mechanical parameters increased at day 2, but were not different from control at 30 days after injection. Chest wall mechanical parameters did not change. Macroscopic evaluation demonstrated pleural adherence without haemothorax. Histopathologic analysis showed pleural inflammation and fibrosis. There was no alveolar inflammation or fibrosis in both groups. In conclusion, barium sulphate induced pleurodesis with either no changes in respiratory mechanics or lung lesion at day 30.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Barium Sulfate / pharmacology*
  • Fibrosis / etiology
  • Functional Residual Capacity / drug effects
  • Histology
  • Inflammation / etiology
  • Lung Compliance / drug effects
  • Male
  • Pleura / drug effects*
  • Pleura / pathology
  • Pleura / physiology
  • Pleurodesis*
  • Rats
  • Rats, Wistar
  • Respiratory Mechanics / drug effects*
  • Respiratory Mechanics / physiology
  • Respiratory System / drug effects
  • Thorax / drug effects
  • Thorax / pathology
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Barium Sulfate