Prognostic indicators in patients presenting with acute cardiogenic pulmonary edema treated with CPAP: It's not the acid that matters, it's back to basics

Abstract

Several prognostic markers have been identified for patients admitted with acute cardiogenic pulmonary edema. Most of the markers are based on clinical risk scores. Unlike hypercapnic respiratory failure, acidosis is not an adverse predictor in these patients. Hemodynamic variables that assess pathophysiological mechanisms may be more helpful to guide appropriate management. © 2010 BioMed Central Ltd.