The GG genotype of the interleukin (IL)-10 promoter polymorphism in position -1082 (-1082GG) has been associated with increased IL-10 production. The current authors hypothesised that the -1082GG genotype is associated with the development of, and outcomes in, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). A nested case-control study was conducted in 211 Caucasian cases of ARDS and 429 controls who were admitted to an intensive care unit with sepsis, trauma, aspiration or massive transfusions. Cases were followed for organ failure and 60-day mortality. The -1082GG genotype was associated with the development of ARDS, but only in the presence of a significant interaction between the -1082GG genotype and age. Among patients with ARDS, the -1082GG genotype was associated with decreased severity of illness on admission, lower daily organ dysfunction scores and lower 60-day mortality. In conclusion, the high interleukin-10-producing -1082GG genotype may be associated with variable odds for acute respiratory distress syndrome development depending on age. Among those with acute respiratory distress syndrome, the -1082GG genotype is associated with lower mortality and organ failure. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings.