Clinical Trial: Pulmonary Function at High-Altitude
Study Status: Completed
Recruit Status: Completed
Study Type: Interventional
Official Title: Interstitial Pulmonary Edema After Rapid Ascent to High Altitude (Margherita Hut, 4559 m)
Brief Summary: Based on the findings of decreased vital capacity, decreased FEV1 and increased closing volume after ascent to high altitude, some investigators suggest the presence of a subclinical high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE). Since these parameters are only indirect measures of pulmonary interstitial fluid accumulation, the aim of this study is to examine the effects of broncho-constriction on the increase of closing volume by extensive lung function testing in healthy mountaineers at low altitude and on the Margherita Hut (4559 m). As has been done in earlier studies, conventional thorax radiographs are used for verification of HAPE. In this study, the determination of the thoracic fluid quantity will be completed by measurements of thoracic impedance. In addition markers of pulmonary endothelial function will be assessed to get further insight into the regulation of pulmonary vascular tone at altitude and in particular into the pathophysiology of HAPE.
Detailed Summary:
Sponsor: Heidelberg University
Current Primary Outcome: development of HAPE [ Time Frame: during the 48 h stay at altitude ]
Original Primary Outcome: Same as current
Current Secondary Outcome:
- change of lung function parameters from low to high altitude [ Time Frame: during the 48 h stay at altitude ]
- markers of pulmonary endothelial function [ Time Frame: during the 48 h stay at altitude ]
- quantification of pulmonary interstitial fluid [ Time Frame: during the 48 h stay at altitude ]
Original Secondary Outcome: Same as current
Information By: Heidelberg University
Dates:
Date Received: January 17, 2008
Date Started: July 2005
Date Completion:
Last Updated: January 29, 2008
Last Verified: November 2007
