© Springer-Verlag 2005

Abstract Background: Acute severe asthma induces marked alterations in respiratory mechanics, characterized by a critical limitation of expiratory flow and a heterogeneous and re-versible increase in airway resistance, resulting in premature airway closure, lung, and chest wall dynamic hy-perinflation and high intrinsic PEEP. Discussion: These abnormalities in-crease the work of breathing and can lead to respiratory muscle fatigue and life-threatening respiratory failure, in which case mechanical ventilation is life-saving. When instituting me