Bronchorrhoea in a case of alveolar cell carcinoma

Abstract

In a case of bronchorrhoea associated with alveolar cell carcinoma, the rheological and chemical features of the sputum indicated that it was bronchial fluid and not saliva and part bronchial secretion, part serum transudate. The viscosity and chemical constituents were similar to those found in bronchorrhoea when associated with chronic bronchitis, asthma or bronchiectasis. The surfactant studies suggested an alveolar origin for most of the fluid, while the failure of fluid restriction, corticosteroids, atropine or cytotoxic drugs to influence the sputum volume an properties indicated that the cells responsible are 'autonomous'.