AEMCA Practice Exam

Which condition is characterized by pulmonary edema due to infection or trauma?

1. Chronic bronchitis

2. Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome

3. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

4. Simple pneumonia

The correct answer is: Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome

The condition characterized by pulmonary edema due to infection or trauma is Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). ARDS is a severe inflammatory response in the lungs, often triggered by various factors including infections (such as pneumonia) or physical injuries. It leads to increased permeability of the pulmonary capillaries, resulting in the accumulation of fluid in the alveoli, which hampers gas exchange and causes severe respiratory distress. In contrast, chronic bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are primarily long-term conditions related to airway obstruction and inflammation but do not typically present with pulmonary edema as an initial hallmark. Simple pneumonia, while it can lead to pulmonary complications, doesn't inherently cause the widespread edema characteristic of ARDS. Thus, the unique presentation of ARDS, especially in the context of acute initiation following trauma or infection, distinctly places it as the correct response to the question.