Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Premature Infants
What causes Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) in premature infants?
Rapidly increasing oxygen requirement with or without respiratory distress worsening, Final answer:Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) in premature infants is caused by a deficiency in pulmonary surfactant, leading to respiratory distress and a rapidly increasing oxygen requirement. Advances in medical treatment including the administration of pulmonary surfactant, CPAP, and mechanical ventilation have significantly improved outcomes.
Understanding Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS)
Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Respiratory distress syndrome, often seen in prematurely born infants, is a serious condition resulting from the insufficient production of pulmonary surfactant. This insufficiency hinders the proper inflation of the lungs at birth, leading to dyspnea (difficulty breathing) and inadequate gas exchange. As a consequence, affected infants display a rapid increase in oxygen requirement, possibly accompanied by respiratory distress that worsens over time. This condition may result in low blood oxygen levels, along with elevated blood carbon dioxide levels and pH.
Medical advancements provide a range of interventions for treating RDS. Immediately after delivery, a non-breathing infant may require resuscitation and intubation, followed by mechanical ventilation. Infants capable of spontaneous breathing might need nasal continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). The administration of pulmonary surfactant is now a standard treatment that has significantly reduced mortality related to RDS. Additionally, corticosteroids, supplemental oxygen, and assisted ventilation may be used to support the infant's respiratory system until their lungs can fully develop.