ARDS
Pronunciation: ards
Also written as: ARDS — Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
A severe form of acute lung injury characterized by widespread inflammation and increased pulmonary vascular permeability.
Full Definition
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is a clinical syndrome of acute onset respiratory failure commonly seen in surgical critical care patients, particularly following major surgery, trauma, or sepsis. ARDS is characterized by bilateral pulmonary infiltrates, severe hypoxemia (PaO2/FiO2 ratio <300), and the absence of left heart failure as the primary cause. The Berlin Definition classifies ARDS as mild (PaO2/FiO2 200-300), moderate (100-200), or severe (<100). Management focuses on lung-protective ventilation strategies with low tidal volumes, appropriate PEEP, and addressing the underlying cause. ARDS carries significant mortality and often requires prolonged mechanical ventilation and intensive supportive care.
Usage
Usage note: Use the Berlin Definition criteria when documenting ARDS diagnosis and severity.
In Context
- "The patient developed severe ARDS with a PaO2/FiO2 ratio of 80 following post-operative sepsis." — Pulmonary consultation
- "Lung-protective ventilation with tidal volume 6 mL/kg was initiated for ARDS management." — Ventilator management note