Experimental lung research
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The adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is characterized by increased neutrophils and macrophages in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid. Interleukin-1 (IL-1), an inflammatory mediator produced by macrophages, has been shown to be chemotactic for neutrophils and to stimulate lymphocyte activation and proliferation of fibroblasts. BAL was performed in patients with ARDS, patients at high risk to develop ARDS, and in normal nonsmokers. ⋯ There was a correlation (r = 0.64, p less than .001) between IL-1 levels and BAL protein concentration. BAL IL-1 levels were highest in patients with the fully developed syndrome but were also elevated in patients at high risk. The absence of significant amounts of IL-1 in serum suggests that it may be produced within the lung.