Therapeutic implications of acute lung injury

Abstract

Although there are no specific therapies for septic shock or acute lung injury that have proven efficacy in humans, a growing understanding of mechanisms of tissue injury has suggested interventions that may prevent or treat this injury. These therapies range from immunization against the glycopolysaccharide core of endotoxin to cyclooxygenase inhibitors to specific oxygen radical scavengers. Each of these treatments is effective in ameliorating at least one of the pathophysiologic manifestations of acute lung injury, although the effect of these agents in the prevention of the sequelae of fibrosis is unknown. Interaction between several factors and mediators is likely necessary for the development of acute lung injury. It is hoped that with additional knowledge regarding mechanisms of injury gained through basic science and clinical research, we can apply definitive therapy that may salvage patients who now die with sepsis and acute lung injury.