Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome

The results of a six-year study on the pathogenesis of posttraumatic adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) are presented in this volume. The study investigates important mediator and cell system changes and functions with close reference to clinical findings. It becomes apparent in this study that posttraumatic lung failure is one aspect of generalized organ dysfunction. Definite organ damage is here demonstrated to occur initially after trauma and is not related to a posttraumatic septic reaction after several days. In addition to the clinical study, data on pathobiochemical changes and immune response for the same time intervals are recorded. By comparing the data and pathophysiological interactions, it is hoped that new ways of treating posttraumatic organ damage can be developed.