The role of exogenous surfactant therapy in ARDS

The acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) consists of acute lung injury (ALI) clinical manifestations caused by variety of reasons. In spite of advances in methods for respiratory support and knowledge of ARDS during the last twenty years, the incidence of ARDS is still the same, as is the mortality rate. Currently available treatment possibilities are focused to newer mechanical ventilation strategies, on the underlying team based general intensive care measures, including respiratory, nursing, and medical professionals, with the emphasis on exogenous surfactant administration. It may be effective for patients with established ARDS, but it would appear that treatment strategies need to be tailored to the specific patient involved. Ongoing and future studies will evaluate the role of surfactant alterations at very early stages of lung injury to determine whether prophylactic or early administration of surfactant can prevent the development of more severe disease.