What is the leading cause of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)?

The leading cause of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is pneumonia, sepsis, or trauma. ARDS is characterized by inflammation and fluid accumulation in the alveoli, which can be triggered by various underlying conditions. Pneumonia, which can lead to significant respiratory infection and inflammation, is a well-documented trigger for ARDS. Sepsis, a systemic response to infection that can also result in multi-organ failure, substantially contributes to the development of ARDS. Trauma, particularly lung injury from accidents or other blunt forces, can result in direct damage to the lung tissue, leading to ARDS as well.

Understanding these causes highlights the importance of addressing infections and managing traumatic injuries effectively in emergency medicine to prevent the progression to ARDS. The other options, although relevant to respiratory issues, do not have the same prevalence or direct causative relationship with ARDS as pneumonia, sepsis, and trauma do.