RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Can Reactive Airways Dysfunction Syndrome (RADS) Be Iatrogenic? JF Respiratory Care FD American Association for Respiratory Care SP 1188 OP 1194 DO 10.4187/respcare.01104 VO 56 IS 8 A1 David J Hewitt YR 2011 UL http://rc.rcjournal.com/content/56/8/1188.abstract AB Reactive airways dysfunction syndrome (RADS) is an asthma-like illness that develops after a single high-level exposure to a pulmonary irritant. Two different cases are reviewed, in which the exposure circumstances were not sufficient to result in adverse health effects yet resulted in persistent respiratory symptoms and a clinical diagnosis of RADS. Potential explanations for an erroneous diagnosis of RADS included an incomplete exposure assessment, medication adverse effects that can contribute to respiratory symptoms, and alternative explanations for respiratory symptoms or test findings. In particular, the empirical use of bronchodilator medications without a clear indication appeared to contribute to continued respiratory symptoms. Without a clear understanding of the patient's exposure, a RADS diagnosis should be carefully considered. The possibility of an iatrogenic sequence of events in which medication adverse effects facilitate respiratory symptoms and a mistaken RADS diagnosis should be considered, particularly in patients who have a poorly defined exposure history.