ARDS

Question 2

What causes alveolar damage in ARDS?

Answer 2

Inflammatory cytokines increase capillary permeability, leading to protein-rich pulmonary edema and alveolar damage.

Question 3

Why does ARDS lead to decreased lung compliance?

Answer 3

Fluid-filled and collapsed alveoli make the lungs stiff, increasing the work of breathing.

Question 4

What is the hallmark of ARDS on chest imaging?

Answer 4

Bilateral pulmonary infiltrates not explained by heart failure or fluid overload.

Question 5

How does ARDS affect the V/Q ratio?

Answer 5

It causes severe V/Q mismatch due to alveolar collapse and fluid-filled airspaces.

Question 6

What is the role of PEEP in ARDS management?

Answer 6

PEEP prevents alveolar collapse during expiration, improving oxygenation and lung compliance.

Question 7

Why is permissive hypercapnia used in ARDS?

Answer 7

To allow low tidal volume ventilation and reduce barotrauma while avoiding respiratory alkalosis.

Question 8

What are the Berlin Criteria for ARDS diagnosis?

Answer 8

Onset within 1 week, bilateral opacities, PaO2/FiO2 ratio <300, and no evidence of cardiac origin.