[The study of oxidative injury of alveolar macrophage in the development of silicosis].

The changes of oxidant and anti-oxidant system of alveolar macrophage under the influence of quartz were studied from different angles such as in vitro cell test, experimental rat silicosis and patients with silicosis. The results showed that quartz dust could induce the production of oxygen derived free radicals of alveolar macrophages which could lead to lipid peroxidation of cell membrane system. These changes were especially obvious in the early stage of experimental rat silicosis and in the patients with silicosis. The process recycling dust involving ingestion, destruction and re--releasing of the dust by the alveolar macrophages, was an important link in the production and development of lung fibrosis. It also illustrated the role played by oxidative injury of alveolar macrophages in the development of lung fibrosis.