Noncardiogenic pulmonary edema.

Pulmonary edema may develop secondary to several cardiogenic and noncardiogenic conditions. Cardiogenic pulmonary edema (CPE) is associated with heart disease, an elevation in left atrial pressure, and an increase in pulmonary venous and capillary pressures. In contrast, noncardiogenic pulmonary edema (NCPE) can occur without pathologic cardiac disease and an elevation in left atrial pressure. NCPE has been associated with an increase in capillary membrane permeability with or without an increase in hydrostatic pressure. Signalment, history, and thoracic radiography may help distinguish NCPE from CPE. Some types of NCPE are self-limiting, and treatment may be largely supportive; others may require pharmacologic intervention and advanced respiratory support.