TY - CHAP M1 - Book, Section TI - Chapter 30. Mechanical Ventilation for Severe Asthma A1 - Leatherman, James W. A2 - Tobin, Martin J. PY - 2013 T2 - Principles and Practice of Mechanical Ventilation, 3e AB - It is estimated that 6000 to 10,000 patients require mechanical ventilation for acute asthma in the United States each year.1 Asthma exacerbations that lead to mechanical ventilation typically progress over 1 or more days, with viral infections being the most common etiology (Table 30-1).2 Airways typically show extensive mucous plugging and eosinophilic infiltration with edema, explaining the often limited immediate response to bronchodilators.3 Approximately 20% of patients experience a more explosive onset, with attacks occurring over minutes to hours.2–4 The precise cause of “sudden asphyxial” asthma is not always apparent, but recognized triggers include aeroallergens, nonsteroidal antiinflammatory agents, airway irritants, and emotional distress.2,4 Rapid-onset attacks are characterized by profound bronchospasm with minimal mucous plugging, explaining both their sudden onset and rapid resolution.3 SN - PB - The McGraw-Hill Companies CY - New York, NY Y2 - 2024/03/29 UR - accessanesthesiology.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?aid=57070714 ER -