49. ARDS Imitators with Drs. Warren & Blagev

In this episode of Critical Care Time, Drs. Nick Mark and Cyrus Askin, along with pulmonologists Dr. Denitza Blagev and Dr. Whittney Warren, delve into ARDS mimics, pulmonary diseases that resemble Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome but require distinct treatments. They discuss diagnostic frameworks, emphasizing the importance of detailed patient history, physical exams, and bronchoscopies, including BAL (bronchoalveolar lavage) techniques. The group analyzes cases involving HIV/AIDS, lupus, vaping, trauma, and heart failure, highlighting the significance of pretest probability, recognizing atypical presentations, and avoiding premature diagnostic closure. They stress the necessity of considering alternative diagnoses beyond ARDS, such as PJP pneumonia, DAH, EVALI, fat embolism, and cardiogenic pulmonary edema, to tailor appropriate treatments and improve patient outcomes.