C O M P L I C A T I O N S

Question 1

How can acute pancreatitis lead to ARDS?

Answer 1

Acute pancreatitis leads to increased serum concentration of pancreatic enzymes (e.g., phospholipase A1). These enzymes can leak across the pulmonary capillaries and damage surfactant in the alveoli. The increased inflammation leads to breakdown of the endothelial barrier, recruitment of inflammatory cytokines, and diffuse alveolar damage. The end result is impaired gas exchange, decreased lung compliance, and pulmonary HTN requiring invasive mechanical ventilation.