Adult respiratory distress syndrome in the tropics

There is limited information on the causes and risk factors of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in tropical countries. Most causes of ARDS commonly seen in developed countries also are encountered in tropical areas. In addition, tropical infections (such as malaria and tuberculosis) and other causes of ARDS (such as agricultural poisonings and heat stroke) are seen far more commonly in the tropics than in the West. The outcome of these patients has improved with the increased availability of modern technological advancements and better intensive care in developing countries.