[Management of severe acute pulmonary edema]

Acute cardiogenic pulmonary oedema is a medical emergency. It generally result from an acute left ventricular insufficiency, itself resulting from systolic or diastolic dysfunction (alteration in relaxation or distensibility). Clinical presentation may be atypical, especially in the elderly. Treatment is based on oxygen, diuretics and nitrates. In severe cases, mechanical ventilation may be required.