BACKGROUND: alveolar cells
Adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a medical emergency that develops in the lungs in response to damage. Factors that can trigger the syndrome include inhalation of toxic gases, serious lung infections, inhalation of gastric contents, and circulatory shock. Despite its name, it can occur at any age.
Following the initial damage, several hours may elapse and then marked dyspnea signals the onset of the serious problems. Damage to type I cells allows a protein-rich fluid to accumulate in the lungs, followed by neutrophils. Further damage results. In fatal cases, which are common, the lungs become heavy and virtually without air.