AERD

Medical abbreviation · Respiratory

AERD
Stands forAspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease
CategoriesMedical

AERD stands for Aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease, a respiratory abbreviation.

Chronic condition combining asthma, recurrent nasal polyps with chronic sinusitis, and respiratory reactions such as wheezing and congestion after taking aspirin or other COX-1-inhibiting NSAIDs. It usually begins in adulthood and affects a substantial minority of adults with severe asthma and nasal polyps.

Example: Asthma, anosmia from recurrent polyps, and wheezing after ibuprofen: AERD, aspirin desensitization planned.

Usage notes

Also called Samter's triad, after Max Samter, who described it in the 1960s, or NSAID-exacerbated respiratory disease (N-ERD). Paradoxically, aspirin desensitization followed by daily high-dose aspirin can reduce polyp regrowth and symptoms. Biologic drugs targeting type 2 inflammation, such as dupilumab, are also effective. Acetaminophen at usual doses and COX-2 inhibitors are generally tolerated.

More respiratory abbreviations

  • A-a gradient – Alveolar-arterial oxygen gradient
  • AATD – Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency
  • ABPA – Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis
  • AC – Assist-control ventilation
  • AECOPD – Acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
  • AHI – Apnea-hypopnea index
  • AHRF – Acute hypoxemic respiratory failure
  • APAP – Automatic positive airway pressure
  • APRV – Airway pressure release ventilation
  • ARDS – Acute respiratory distress syndrome
  • ARF – Acute respiratory failure
  • ATS – American Thoracic Society

See all 109 respiratory abbreviations →

This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.