Surfactant biology and clinical application

There is strong evidence that alterations in the pulmonary surfactant system play an important role in the pathophysiology of lung disease, including ARDS . Although it is still unclear whether mortality and morbidity of ARDS will be reduced, surfactant replacement therapy has been shown to improve oxygenation, improve lung compliance, and decrease the need for ventilatory support. The critical need for more standardized studies with one type of intratracheal surfactant and uniform measurements of surfactant proteins and phospholipids by BAL is evident. Further studies will also be needed to elucidate the optimal timing and dosage regimen for different disease processes. Some evidence supports the measurements of surfactant protein levels as markers for predicting the onset and outcome of ARDS and perhaps providing a window for early treatment of patients at risk to develop ARDS. Continued investigation into the role of surfactant in the immune regulation of the lung may also provide additional information to support the efficacy of surfactant replacement in lung disease.