Respiratory Distress Syndrome Treatment

Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) commonly affects infants born prematurely because the lungs are underdeveloped. The lungs may not produce adequate surfactant, which is a liquid that lines the lungs to keep the airways open. Inflammation and fluid in the lungs can occur, along with an inadequate oxygen delivery to the blood. Signs of RDS include rapid breathing, bluish skin, and flaring of the nostrils. The risk for RDS increases with the level of prematurity, particularly for babies born after only 28 weeks of pregnancy. Infants affected by RDS may develop a breathing condition called bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD).

Infants diagnosed with RDS are usually treated in the neonatal intensive care unit. Calfactant (Infasurf) and beractant (Survanta) are lung surfactants that can be used for prevention and treatment of RDS. The surfactant is given until the lungs are developed enough to produce adequate surfactant naturally. A breathing tube may be used to improve expansion of the lungs and also to administer the surfactant. A ventilator machine also may be used to help with breathing. Alternatively, a procedure called continuous positive airway pressure may be used, in which mild air pressure is used to maintain open airways.





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