Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a life-threatening respiratory failure characterized by rapid onset of widespread inflammation in the lungs. It occurs in critically ill patients. Globally, there are 3 million cases of ARDS every year, of which approximately 200,000 cases are in the United States. The COVID-19 pandemic has added significantly to the number of ARDS cases. ARDS has an estimated mortality rate of 30% to 50%. Symptoms of ARDS include shortness of breath, rapid breathing and heart rate, chest pain, particularly while inhaling, and bluish skin coloration. Among those who survive ARDS, a decreased quality of life is common. Currently, there is no proven treatment for ARDS.

ARDS lung
ARDS lung