title: Acute respiratory distress syndrome.
abstract: Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is defined by bilateral diffuse infiltrates on chest radiography, a PO2/FiO2 ratio < 200, and noncardiogenic pulmonary edema. Pathophysiologically it is characterized by disruption of the alveolar lining and capillary endothelium, alveolar edema, protein exudation coupled with a marked inflammatory response and subsequent fibrosis and a resultant ventilation-perfusion mismatch. Effective treatment strategies include low tidal volume ventilation with positive end expiratory pressure, careful fluid management and good supportive care.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, University of Missouri - Kansas City School of Medicine, USA.
authors.forename: Ashley
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Mann
authors.forename: Gerald L
authors.initials: GL
authors.lastname: Early
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D018836:Inflammation Mediators / Q000502:physiology; D009752:Nutritional Status; D011175:Positive-Pressure Respiration; D012121:Respiration, Artificial; D012128:Respiratory Distress Syndrome / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D016896:Treatment Outcome
chemical_list: D018836:Inflammation Mediators