Adult respiratory distress syndrome in association with acute pancreatitis. Evaluation of positive end expiratory pressure ventilation and pharmacologic doses of steroids

Patients with adult respiratory distress syndrome in association with acute pancreatitis were studied intensively. A rise in pulmonary wedge pressure was seen after elevation of the serum amylase level with concomitant depression of the serum calcium level. Pharmacologic doses of steroids did not seem to be efficacious in reducing $\text{Qs}\text{Qt}$ changes. However, inception of positive end expiratory pressure ventilation caused diminution in $\text{Qs}\text{Qt}$ ratios.