Common respiratory conditions of the newborn

Abstract

Key pointsRespiratory distress is a common presenting feature among newborn infants.Prompt investigation to ascertain the underlying diagnosis and appropriate subsequent management is important to improve outcomes.Many of the underlying causes of respiratory distress in a newborn are unique to this age group.A chest radiograph is crucial to assist in diagnosis of an underlying cause.Educational aimsTo inform readers of the common respiratory problems encountered in neonatology and the evidence-based management of these conditions.To enable readers to develop a framework for diagnosis of an infant with respiratory distress.The first hours and days of life are of crucial importance for the newborn infant as the infant adapts to the extra-uterine environment. The newborn infant is vulnerable to a range of respiratory diseases, many unique to this period of early life as the developing fluid-filled fetal lungs adapt to the extrauterine environment. The clinical signs of respiratory distress are important to recognise and further investigate, to identify the underlying cause. The epidemiology, diagnostic features and management of common neonatal respiratory conditions are covered in this review article aimed at all healthcare professionals who come into contact with newborn infants.

Predictors of Neonatal Deaths in Ashanti Region of Ghana: A Cross-Sectional Study

“…This is congruent with findings from a recent study by Mengesha et al [20], where preterm delivery was an independent predictor of neonatal mortality in Northern Ethiopia. This could be explained by the fact that preterm and postterm babies are unable to adjust to extrauterine life and therefore are prone to specific complications like breathing difficulties, intracranial bleeding, infections, hypothermia, and jaundice [21]. This study also found an influence of pregnancy complications on child survival.…”

Triagem auditiva neonatal em hospital da Rede Cegonha

“…Também a capacidade respiratória do recém-nascido para se adaptar ao ambiente extrauterino é crítica para a sobrevivência. As disfunções respiratórias neonatais podem surgir por várias razões: adaptação atrasada ou má adaptação para a vida extrauterina; condições já existentes (anomalias congênitas ou cirúrgicas) ou adquiridas (infecções pulmonares ocorridas pré ou pós-parto) (13) .…”

Respiratory distress in Full and Post term neonates: Prevalence, Etiologies and Outcomes in a Tertiary Health Center in Yaoundé

“…Respiratory distress is a common condition in neonates requiring admission in a neonatal care unit (NCU) [1]. It can occur in both preterm and full-term neonates affecting both morbidity and mortality rates [2,3]. The main medical diagnoses that are related to these conditions are transient tachypnea, meconium inhalation syndrome, respiratory distress syndrome also known as hyaline membrane disease and pneumonia [4].…”