A patient taking aspirin or other salicylates may develop a number of pulmonary conditions. It is essential to recognize a condition early and to discontinue the aspirin exposure as soon as possible.
Asthma is the most common pulmonary finding and is usually associated with an allergy to the drug (see Aspirin Triad Syndrome)
More serious pulmonary disorders may occur:
(1) noncardiogenic pulmonary edema
(2) adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)
Diagnosis involves:
(1) documentation of salicylate exposure
(2) exclusion of alternative explanations
(3) reversal on salicylate discontinuation
The exposure to a salicylate may not be immediately obvious because aspirin is present in so many over-the-counter products or because the person does not think to mention it. Measuring salicylate levels in urine or blood may be necessary to document exposure.
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