The authors having reported all the possible denominations of syndromes of respiratory distress in the adult mention again the main etiologies, stressing on the last ones. They recall afterwards the different clinical, radiological and biological stages of this syndrome. The hemodynamic profile is defined by normal catheterism data and the presence of a true anatomical shunt. On the other hand several hemodynamic variations are possible. The differential diagnosis is essentially cardiac edema. Finally the authors state that treatment is done only by symptomatic therapies: dehydration and assisted ventilation. They do not make use of membrane oxygenator. Assisted ventilation is essential and is mainly based on a good indication and the optimal use of permanent positive pressure.
Adult Diagnosis, Differential