title: Radical approach to the acute respiratory distress syndrome.
abstract: The acute respiratory distress syndrome continues to be a major medical problem. Despite recent advances in treatment, such as the use of nitrogen monoxide (NO), extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and specialized ventilatory techniques in maintaining adequate oxygenation, mortality still remains high. The presence of activated neutrophils coupled with high inspired oxygen concentrations provide conditions that favour increased oxidative stress and this has focused attention on the possible role of free radical species in both the initiation and propagation of ARDS. Although there is evidence implicating increased free radical activity in ARDS, much of this is from animal models and the role of intervention in such processes has not been established. Although antioxidant therapy has been suggested as a possible treatment for ARDS the current literature is less than convincing. We examine the available data from human studies and suggest possible further studies and future therapeutic goals.
authors.affiliation: a Department of Intensive Care & Renal Medicine Cardiovascular Research , The Rayne Institute, St Thomas' Hospital , Lambeth Palace Road, London SE1 7EA , UK.
authors.forename: L G
authors.initials: LG
authors.lastname: Forni
authors.affiliation: a Department of Intensive Care & Renal Medicine Cardiovascular Research , The Rayne Institute, St Thomas' Hospital , Lambeth Palace Road, London SE1 7EA , UK.
authors.forename: F J
authors.initials: FJ
authors.lastname: Kelly
authors.affiliation: a Department of Intensive Care & Renal Medicine Cardiovascular Research , The Rayne Institute, St Thomas' Hospital , Lambeth Palace Road, London SE1 7EA , UK.
authors.forename: R M
authors.initials: RM
authors.lastname: Leach