ABSTRACT
Ventilatory impairment is often associated with malnutrition. This seems to follow a logical progression of diminished intake and increased energy demands. However, the pathophysiology of this phenomenon is more complex. An interplay exists wherein malnutrition may induce ventilatory failure, and conversely, ventilatory may lead to malnutrition. Nutritional support is an important adjunct to the care of the pulmonary patient in the intensive care unit (ICU). Malnutrition and respiratory failure are integrally linked.
