The challenge of SARS: a clinical review.

The challenge of SARS: a clinical review.

File T M Jr

Journal of Respiratory Diseases

2004

2004-04

Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is a newly described emerging infection caused by a novel coronavirus, which can be highly contagious by close contact. Patients may present with an acute febrile illness that involves the lower respiratory tract. The most common complaints are fever and chills/rigors, but cough, myalgia, and rhinorrhea may also occur. Progressive disease is characterized by an acute respiratory distress syndrome, a need for ventilatory support, laboratory abnormalities (such as absolute lymphopenia), and a chest radiograph that shows progressive infiltrates. Diagnosis is confirmed when the SARS coronavirus is isolated, antibody to the virus is detected, or reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (by appropriate criteria) is positive. No specific therapy is recommended; however, most patients have been treated with broad-spectrum antimicrobials, supplemental oxygen, intravenous fluids, and other supportive measures. Exposure prevention efforts should include a combination of standard, contact, and airborne precautions.

Infection Control; Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome – Diagnosis; Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome – Epidemiology; Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome – Radiography; Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome – Symptoms

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