What is the primary consequence of Phase 3 of ARDS?

What is the primary consequence of Phase 3 of ARDS?

• A. Acute pulmonary edema
• B. Respiratory failure/systemic inflammation
• C. Reduced lung compliance
• D. Increased vascular resistance

Answer: (B)

The primary consequence of Phase 3 of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is respiratory failure and systemic inflammation. During this phase, the inflammatory response that characterizes ARDS becomes widespread, leading to severe impairment of gas exchange in the lungs. The alveoli become filled with fluid and inflammatory cells, severely disrupting normal lung function. As a result of this accumulation of fluid and the breakdown of the alveolar-capillary membrane, individuals find it increasingly difficult to oxygenate their blood. This condition leads to respiratory failure, where the lungs can no longer effectively transfer oxygen into the bloodstream or remove carbon dioxide. Moreover, the systemic inflammation can affect various organs beyond the lungs, leading to multi-organ dysfunction. This phase contrasts with the earlier stages of ARDS, which might focus more on the initial presence of pulmonary edema or changes in lung mechanics, such as reduced compliance. While these are indeed consequences in the progression of ARDS, the most critical and impactful outcome during Phase 3 is the culmination of these processes, resulting in respiratory failure and significant systemic inflammation.

The primary consequence of Phase 3 of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is respiratory failure and systemic inflammation. During this phase, the inflammatory response that characterizes ARDS becomes widespread, leading to severe impairment of gas exchange in the lungs. The alveoli become filled with fluid and inflammatory cells, severely disrupting normal lung function.

As a result of this accumulation of fluid and the breakdown of the alveolar-capillary membrane, individuals find it increasingly difficult to oxygenate their blood. This condition leads to respiratory failure, where the lungs can no longer effectively transfer oxygen into the bloodstream or remove carbon dioxide. Moreover, the systemic inflammation can affect various organs beyond the lungs, leading to multi-organ dysfunction.

This phase contrasts with the earlier stages of ARDS, which might focus more on the initial presence of pulmonary edema or changes in lung mechanics, such as reduced compliance. While these are indeed consequences in the progression of ARDS, the most critical and impactful outcome during Phase 3 is the culmination of these processes, resulting in respiratory failure and significant systemic inflammation.