ARDS
Pronunciation: ARDS (spelled out)
Also written as: ARDS — Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
A severe inflammatory lung condition characterized by widespread alveolar damage, increased pulmonary vascular permeability, and refractory hypoxemia.
Full Definition
ARDS is a life-threatening condition resulting from direct or indirect lung injury, leading to acute inflammatory response and impaired gas exchange. It is characterized by bilateral pulmonary infiltrates, severely reduced lung compliance, and hypoxemia that doesn't respond well to supplemental oxygen. Common causes include sepsis, pneumonia, trauma, and aspiration. Management involves lung-protective ventilation strategies with low tidal volumes to prevent ventilator-induced lung injury. The Berlin Definition categorizes ARDS severity based on PaO2/FiO2 ratios. Mortality remains high despite advances in supportive care.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize as ARDS; distinguish from older term ALI (Acute Lung Injury).
In Context
- "The patient met Berlin criteria for moderate ARDS with a PaO2/FiO2 ratio of 120." — Critical care consultation note
- "Lung-protective ventilation was initiated immediately upon ARDS diagnosis." — Respiratory therapy protocol