ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS OF ACUTE RESPIRATORY DISCOMFORT SYNDROME

Abstract

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is a serious cause of hypoxemic respiratory failure in critically ill patients. Despite the standardization of diagnosis using the Berlin criteria, the rate of underdiagnosis remains significant due to the clinical and pathophysiological heterogeneity of the syndrome. This narrative review analyzes current evidence regarding the diagnosis and management of ARDS. Bedside imaging tools, such as pulmonary ultrasound and electrical impedance tomography, along with the identification of inflammatory subphenotypes (hypo- and hyperinflammatory) and biomarkers, have driven the transition toward precision medicine. Treatment is based on protective mechanical ventilation, optimization of PEEP, prone positioning, and individualized adjunctive therapies. Advances in etiological and phenotypic stratification are essential for optimizing clinical outcomes in ARDS.