Nutritional Challenges in ARDS Secondary to Pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis: A Case Report
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Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is a critical condition associated with high morbidity and mortality, particularly when accompanied by chronic lung disease and multiple organ dysfunction. Nutritional management in patients with ARDS remains challenging due to increased metabolic demands, reduced oral intake capacity, and complications such as acute kidney injury (AKI). This challenge becomes more complex in patients with pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis, a rare occupational lung disease caused by prolonged exposure to fine silica particles. This study aimed to describe the challenges of nutritional management in a patient with ARDS secondary to pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis and to highlight the importance of individualized nutritional support in critically ill patients. This study employed a descriptive case report approach. Data were obtained from clinical observations, medical records, nutritional assessments, laboratory examinations, and treatment progress of a 38-year-old male mine worker with severe ARDS, suspected pneumoconiosis, and AKI who was treated in the intensive care unit. The patient experienced difficulties in meeting nutritional requirements due to persistent dyspnea, nausea, decreased appetite, increased oxygen requirements, and renal dysfunction. Nutritional therapy was adjusted according to clinical changes, beginning with an oral soft diet and subsequently modified to a non-dialysis kidney diet with protein restriction. Despite multidisciplinary management involving respiratory support, nutritional intervention, and renal monitoring, the patient’s condition deteriorated and required invasive mechanical ventilation. Nutritional management in patients with ARDS complicated by occupational lung disease and organ dysfunction requires continuous evaluation and individualized strategies. Further studies are needed to establish evidence-based nutritional approaches for this complex patient population
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