ABSTRACT
Shock lung (ARDS) is the term used to cover a variety of non-cardiac causes of pulmonary oedema (fluid in the lungs) which lead to lung injury typified by increased pulmonary capillary permeability. This is usually induced by chemical mediators released from cell damage (cytokines). It is most frequently seen in the intensive care unit either as a reason for admission to the unit or developing whilst a critically ill patient is being treated there.
