[Corticosteroid administration for acute respiratory distress syndrome : therapeutic option?]

Despite a number of clinical trials there is still controversy about the role of corticosteroid therapy in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). In addition recent meta-analyses differed markedly in the conclusions. This review is intended to provide a short practical guide for the clinician. Based on the available literature, high-dose and pre-emptive administration of corticosteroids is hazardous and not indicated. A low-dose corticosteroid regime given for 4 weeks may potentially be helpful and can be considered in acute or unresolved ARDS in less than 14 days after onset of ARDS, if a close infection surveillance program is available, if neuromuscular blockade can be avoided and if a stepwise dose reduction of corticosteroids is performed. The total daily dose at the beginning of treatment should not exceed 2 mg/kg body weight (BW) methylprednisolone.