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Martin I. Gold, MD
University of Maryland Hospital Baltimore

JAMA. 1970;211(4):663.

	Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 150 words of the full text PDF and any section headings.

To the Editor.—

I am disturbed by the answer which John H.K. Vogel, MD, provided in response to the query of a postcoronary patient vacationing at Estes Park, Colo, at 7,522 feet altitude (210:731, 1969).

Dr. Vogel states that physiologic changes would be favorable and specifies a number of cardiovascular trends occurring ten days after going from sea level to 10,000 feet. The patient, however, is certainly subjected to a decreased arterial oxygen tension (Pao₂) during these first few days and cannot be considered immune until such "benefit" accrues. Dr. Vogel states that the Pao₂ at 7,522 feet would be 60 mm Hg. The Pao₂ is not simply a function of PiO₂ (which of course depends on the barometric pressure and inhalation concentration of oxygen), but it is vitally dependent on: distribution, diffusion, and ventilation/perfusion factors in addition to the Paco₂. The "mild polycythemic . . . [Full Text PDF of this Article]

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