Immersion pulmonary edema is sudden-onset pulmonary edema that typically occurs early during a dive while at depth.

Immersion pulmonary edema has become more common over the past 2 decades. This disorder is similar to negative pressure pulmonary edema encountered during induction of anesthesia when a patient with laryngospasm attempts to take deep breaths against a closed larynx, thereby causing negative intra-alveolar pressure. Abnormal left ventricular diastolic relaxation may contribute. Immersion pulmonary edema is not related to lung barotrauma or decompression sickness. Cold water and a history of hypertension are risk factors.

Severe dyspnea develops. Divers usually ascend rapidly and have cough, frothy sputum, scattered crackles throughout both lung fields, and sometimes cyanosis. Hypoxia is present. Chest x-ray shows typical pulmonary edema. Cardiac evaluation usually shows normal right and left ventricular function and normal coronary arteries. Diastolic dysfunction can be documented by echocardiography. Diuretic therapy and O₂ by positive pressure mask are usually sufficient therapy. Mechanical ventilation may be necessary. Recompression therapy is not indicated.

Last full review/revision April 2013 by Alfred A. Bove, MD, PhD