La Vita, Carolyn J.  <br/><br/>
Mucolytics in respiratory failure — A MARCH forward 

 - páginas: 817-818 
<br/><br/> In patients with acute respiratory failure, difficulty managing respiratory secretions may contribute to adverse outcomes. Airway mucus is a multilayered substance consisting of a viscoelastic glycoprotein gel, a liquid layer, and a thin layer of surfactant. Mucus is cleared from the airway primarily by the action of cilia (mucociliary clearance) and interaction with airflow (cough). In acute respiratory failure, airway irritation from relatively dry inhaled gasses, infection, and inflammation can lead to mucus hypersecretion, and sedation and neuromuscular impairment can contribute to impaired cough. 
<br/><br/><label>Subjects--Topical Terms: </label><br/>MEDICINA CLÍNICA GENERAL<br/>MEDICINA CLÍNICA HOSPITALARIA<br/>CUIDADOS INTENSIVOS<br/>VENTILACIÓN MECÁNICA<br/>NEUMOLOGÍA