The adult respiratory distress syndrome

The adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) continues to kill many patients. Although its pathophysiological pathways have been further elucidated we still have no effective direct pharmacotherapy. Ventilatory support has been further refined and the role of extracorporeal support continues to be investigated. The cardiovascular management, especially that of oxygen delivery (DO2) is, as ever, of intense interest. In the midst of these uncertainties there is hope in the evidence of a decreased mortality from the disease.