Respiratory Distress, Non-Cardiac

Course overview

The clinical presentation of Acute Respiratory Distress (ARDS) is marked by disruptions to the alveolar-capillary complex mediated by inflammation, interalveolar edema primarily caused by protein-rich fluids influx, reduced alveolar clearance, and increased pulmonary resistance. Beyond sepsis-induced inflammation, a mechanical ventilation regimen can also propagate ventilator-related injury that may precipitate ARDS. The mechanisms involved in the pathophysiology of ARDS are complex and are primarily under clinical investigation. However, the symptomatology, management guideline, and postoperative rehabilitation plans for this condition have been mapped out. This course is designed to evaluate ARDS in perspective, discussing its clinically-accepted definitions and modifications made in subsequent years. We have created a detailed outline of the pathophysiology, epidemiology, diagnosis criteria, and clinical management and rehabilitation care guidelines. The different mediators responsible for Diffuse Alveolar Damage (DAD), the hallmark of ARDS, will also be discussed based on available clinical evidence.