Which of the following shows a correct cause and effect sequence in the development of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)?
A) Impaired alveolar compliance causing decreased surfactant production
B) Alveolocapillary membrane injury causing a massive inflammatory response
C) Hyaline membrane formation and fibrosis causing pulmonary edema
D) Increased alveolocapillary membrane permeability causing metabolic acidosis

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

ARDS is caused by injury to the alveolocapillary membrane, which leads to increased permeability and leakage of fluid into the air spaces of the lungs. This causes a massive inflammatory response, leading to the development of ARDS. Impaired alveolar compliance, decreased surfactant production, hyaline membrane formation and fibrosis, and metabolic acidosis can all be consequences of ARDS, but they are not the cause.

Which of the Following Shows a Correct Cause and Effect