Changes in arterial norepinephrine concentration following intravenous administration in dogs with lung edema.

Arterial concentrations of given norepinephrine (NE) were measured after bolus administration in dogs with normal lungs and in those with oleic acid-induced lung edema. In both groups, the peak NE concentration was given by blood samples taken 30 sec after injection and the concentration showed a decreasing tendency thereafter. NE concentrations were always greater in the lung edema group than in the control group and a longer period was needed for NE concentrations to return to the baseline level. This delay in the clearance of NE from the circulation might reflect a diminished uptake by the pulmonary endothelium. This phenomenon may be used for the diagnosis of pulmonary endothelial injury.