Infection in Pediatric Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome

Pediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a severe lung injury caused by pneumonia, sepsis, and trauma. ARDS results from inflammation and pulmonary capillary leak causing major changes in lung architecture and function. It has a low incidence, but its severity and duration cause major morbidity, mortality, and use of resources. Any organism can cause ARDS. Susceptible populations develop the syndrome more often and have worse outcomes. Aggressive diagnosis and intensive treatment are essential to good outcomes in ARDS caused by infection. The prognosis for survival is good, but morbidity after the syndrome is a major burden.