Pulmonary aspiration. The three syndromes.

Pulmonary aspiration of oropharyngeal secretions, inert fluids and/or particulate material, or gastric contents produces three distinct clinical syndromes. Optimum management, although largely supportive, requires that the clinician understand the clinical presentation and course of each syndrome. Prevention is the primary goal. Early recognition of high-risk patients coupled with prompt institution of simple preventive measures can reduce the incidence and severity of these syndromes.