Noncardiogenic pneumonic edema

Rigomo Team

Sat, 04 Oct 2025

Noncardiogenic pulmonary oedema is an illness that leads to acute hypoxia secondary to a fast deterioration in respiratory function. The illness has multiple etiologies, all of that need prompt recognition and intervention.

The permeability of the alveolar-capillary membrane is increased which leads to the increased leak of protein and water in the alveolar space causing an increase of intra-alveolar fluid, thereby increasing pulmonary vascular resistance, intrapulmonary shunt, and hypoxemia. This will cause a marked reduction in compliance of Lung.  

To differentiate from cardiogenic pulmonary oedema, pneumonic capillary wedge pressure isn't elevated. This is often necessary to differentiate because the management of both conditions is different.

Pulmonary oedema that's not caused by hyperbolic pressures within the heart is termed noncardiogenic pneumonic oedema.

Causes of noncardiogenic Pulmonary oedema include:

o   Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). This serious disorder happens once the lungs suddenly fill with fluid. several conditions will cause respiratory illness, as well as severe injury (trauma), and widespread infection (sepsis), respiratory illness.

o   Drug reactions or side effects of several medications — starting from acetylsalicylic acid to medication like opiate and cocaine — are best known to cause pulmonary oedema.

o   Blood clot in the lungs (pulmonary embolism). A clot moving from the blood vessels of the legs to the lungs can cause pulmonary oedema.

o   Exposure to some toxins. Exposure to some toxins or aspirating some refluxed abdomen contents may cause intense irritation of the tiny airways and air sacs, leading to fluid build-up.

o   High altitudes. Pulmonary oedema has been seen in mountain climbers, skiers, hikers and others who trip high elevations, typically around 8,000 feet. High altitude Pulmonary oedema (HAPE) typically happens in those that do not take the times or weeks necessary to become accustomed to the elevation. however, people that live at high altitudes will get HAPE with no elevation amendment if they need a respiratory disorder.

o   Near drowning episodes in water can cause fluid build-up within the lungs.

o   Negative pressure Pulmonary oedema. A blocked higher airway causes negative pressure within the lungs from attempting to breathe through the blockage. With treatment, most patients recover within 24 hrs with this type of Pulmonary oedema.

o   Nervous system conditions or surgeries. Pulmonary oedema occurs after a head injury, seizure or surgery.

o   Smoke inhalation. Smoke from certain chemicals can harm the membrane between the air sacs and also the capillaries. This harm permits fluid to enter the lungs.

o   Transfusion-related respiratory organ injury. Blood transfusions might cause fluid overload resulting in Pulmonary oedema.

o   Viral sicknesses. Viruses like the hantavirus can cause Pulmonary oedema.