Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (Pleural/Pulmonary Disease) Flashcards
What is ARDS?
It is a form of non-cardiogenic pulmonary oedema caused by widespread inflammation in the lungs. This inflammation results in increased capillary permeability and flooding of the alveoli with fluid.
What are the general causes of ARDS?
Critical illness, Shock, Trauma and burns
What are the infective causes of ARDS?
Sepsis and malaria
What drugs can causes of ARDS?
Aspirin and heroin
What are the GI causes of ARDS?
Acute liver failure and pancreatitis
What are the obstetric causes of ARDS?
Eclampsia and amniotic fluid embolus
What are the respiratory causes of ARDS?
Pneumonia, inhalation injuries and vasculitis
What are the haematological causes of ARDS?
Heamorrhage, DIC, multiple transfusions, fat embolism
What are the symptoms of ARDS?
Shortness of breath and tachypnoea
What are the signs of ARDS?
Cyanosis, tachycardia, peripheral vasodilation and bilateral crepitation’s
How long does ARDS take to develop after the precipitating event?
All symptoms and signs develop from hours to 3 days
What investigations can be done to confirm a diagnosis of ARDS?
CXR, Bloods and Pulmonary artery catheter
What bloods would be done to confirm a diagnosis of ARDS?
FBC, U&E, LFT, CRP, clotting, culture, ABG
What is the purpose of a Pulmonary artery catheter?
To measure pulmonary capillary wedge pressure
What are the main diagnostic criteria for ARDS?
- Acute onset
- CXR: bilateral pulmonary infiltrates
- Lack of clinical congestive cardiac failure
- Pa02: Fi02 < 300
