Common Cause Of Respiratory Distress Research Articles

The prevalence of pulmonary artery hypertension in neonates with meconium aspiration syndrome: a prospective study

Background: Meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) is one of the most common causes of respiratory distress in the term and post term newborns. Meconium staining of amniotic fluid occurs in 10-15% of all deliveries, amongst which 5% of babies develop MAS. Pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH) and pneumothorax are severe complications of MAS and these contribute significantly to mortality and morbidity in the affected babies. The objective was to study the prevalence, risk factors and outcome of PAH in neonates with meconium aspiration syndrome. Methods: This prospective observational study included 250 newborns with MAS who were screened for the development of PAH by echocardiography during hospital stay. The prevalence, risk factors and outcome of PAH were determined. Results: The prevalence of PAH and PPHN among meconium aspiration syndrome was 45% and 29% respectively. Low Apgar score at birth and presence of thick meconium were identified as the risk factors for progression to PAH. The outcome of newborns with PPHN was poor. Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of PAH in babies born with MAS and those progressing to PPHN have a poorer outcome.

Thoracic fluid content (TFC) using electrical cardiometry versus lung ultrasound in the diagnosis of transient tachypnea of newborn

This study aimed to evaluate TFC by EC versus lung ultrasound (LUS) findings for diagnosing and follow-up of TTN in late preterm and term neonates. This prospective observational study was conducted on 80 neonates with gestational age ≥ 34 weeks. TTN group included 40 neonates diagnosed with TTN, and no lung disease (NLD) group included 40 neonates without respiratory distress. LUS and EC were performed within the first 24 h of life and repeated after 72 h. There was a statistically significant increase in TFC in TTN group on D1 [48.48 ± 4.86 (1 KOhm−1)] compared to NLD group [32.95 ± 4.59 (1 KOhm−1)], and then significant decrease in TFC in D3 [34.90 ± 4.42 (1 KOhm−1)] compared to D1 in the TTN group. There was a significant positive correlation between both TFC and LUS with Downes’ score, TTN score, and duration of oxygen therapy in the TTN group. Conclusion: Both LUS and TFC by EC provide good bedside tools that could help to diagnose and monitor TTN. TFC showed a good correlation with LUS score and degree of respiratory distress.What is Known:• Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN) is the most common cause of respiratory distress in newborns.• TTN is a diagnosis of exclusion, there are no specific clinical parameters or biomarker has been identified for TTN.What is New:• Thoracic fluid content (TFC) by electrical cardiometry is a new parameter to evaluate lung fluid volume and could help to diagnose and monitor TTN and correlates with lung ultrasound score.

Effect of Nasal Continuous Airway Pressure With and Without Surfactant Administration for the Treatment of Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Preterm Neonates.

Background Neonatal respiratory distress syndrome is a common cause of respiratory distress in newborns, often resulting from a lack of surfactant production or premature lung breakdown. The objective of this study was to compare the effect of nasal continuous airway pressure with and without surfactant administration for the treatment of respiratory distress syndrome in preterm neonates. Methodology A comparative analytical study was conducted on 100 neonates (group A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) with surfactant = 50 vs. group B CPAP only= 50 ). The group was allocated to the patient according to sequence. In group A, the neonates were given surfactant by the INSURE (intubation, surfactant, extubation) technique via an endotracheal tube with a single dose of 100 mg/kg/dose within the first hours of life followed by CPAP. In group B, the neonates were given only CPAP after birth. At follow-up after 24 hours, pH, pCO2, pO2, positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP), and FiO2 were documented. All information was recorded on a predesigned questionnaire and results were subjected to statistical analysis to determine the significance of observed differences. Collected data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 22 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Both groups were compared for mean pH, pCO2, pO2, PEEP, and FiO2 using an independent-sample t-test and effectiveness using a chi-square test. A significant difference was considered when the p-value was ≤0.05. Results Group A had a mean age of 4.84 ± 0.95 hours, while group B had a mean age of 5.5 ± 1.26 hours (p = 0.04). Gender distribution was similar in both groups, with 46.0% males and 54.0% females in group A, and 48.0% males and 52.0% females in group B (p = 0.841). Regarding post-treatment blood gas analysis, group A had a mean pH of 7.30 ± 0.05, and group B had a mean pH of 7.302 ± 0.07. While there was no significant difference in pO2 levels (p = 0.38), there was a substantial difference in pCO2 levels, with group A at 38.26 ± 4.35 and group B at 35.45 ± 4.36 (p = 0.02).CPAP parameters also showed a statistically significant difference in PEEP pCO2, with group A at 4.5 ± 0.73 and group B at 4.16 ± 0.37 (p = 0.004). After treatment, group A exhibited significant improvements in blood gas analysis and CPAP parameters compared to group B. Conclusions The study revealed that both CPAP with and without surfactant treatment effectively treat respiratory distress syndrome in preterm infants, with both being safe, effective, secure, and reducing side effects. However, CPAP treatment without surfactant is a non-invasive and cost-effective option.

Early Outcome of Neonates Admitted with Meconium Aspiration Syndrome.

Meconium aspiration syndrome is one of the commonest cause of respiratory distress in neonates. The incidence is still high in developing world. This study aims to study the clinical characteristics and early outcome of neonates admitted for meconium aspiration syndrome. This was a cross-sectional descriptive study done among neonates admitted to the neonatal Intensive Care Unit with a diagnosis of Meconium Aspiration syndrome. Relevant epidemiological, clinical and laboratory data were obtained. The early outcome of those neonate was studied. Out of 140 neonates with a mean birth weight of 2865 + 543 grams,73.6% were male, of which 76.4% were referred cases while 23.6% were inborn. Of them 69.3% had history of thin type of meconium while 30.7% had thick type of meconium during delivery. Of all mothers, 74.3% were primigravida, 4.3% had intrapartum fever of unknown source,11.4% suffered from urinary tract infection while 2.8% had hypertension. Premature rupture of membrane had occurred among 7.9% and oligohydramnios was found in 10%. Half of them (50.7%) had spontaneous vaginal delivery, 44.3% had caesarian section, while 4.8% had assisted delivery. Around one third of the neonates (37.1%) were given supplemental oxygen via nasal prongs, 25.7% via head box, 27.1% via continuous positive airway pressure and 10% intubated. Around half of the neonates (42.1%) had no complications. Complication noted were sepsis, birth asphyxia, seizures and polycythemia in 35%, 14.3%, 5.7% and 2.9% respectively. Mortality occurred among 5.0% of them. Meconium aspiration syndrome is one of the commonest cause of respiratory distress in a neonate which is associated with common maternal risk factors especially in primigravida which included Urinary tract infection, hypertension and oligohydramnios.

Evaluation of etiology and clinical spectrum of respiratory distress in neonates admitted in tertiary care NICU

Background: Neonatal period is defined as up to first 28 days of life and further divided into very early (birth to <24 h), early (birth to <7 days), and late neonatal period (7 days to <28 days). Neonatal period is the most vulnerable period of human life as it accounts for very high morbidities and mortalities and most of these are preventable. India contributes to one-fifth of global live births and more than a quarter of neonatal deaths. Respiratory distress is most common cause of NICU admission Aim of current study was to determine the etiology of respiratory distress in neonates presenting in NICU, clinical spectrum of respiratory problems in neonates having respiratory distress and the management of respiratory distress. Methods: The present study was a prospective, observational, comparative study. This study was conducted from January 2019 to October 2019 at Mata Channan Devi hospital Janakpuri, New Delhi. 80 patients were included in this study. Results: In our study 93.75% cases of respiratory distress was of respiratory origin, while 3.75% was due to cardiac cause and 2.5% was central nervous system due to birth asphyxia and in our study group most common clinical finding of respiratory distress was tachypnea found in 97.5% of patients. Result showed, overall incidence of respiratory distress among in borns was 10.34%. In our study TTNB was most common cause of respiratory distress among new born. Conclusions: There was no significant difference of incidence in male and female babies. The etiology varies with gestational age. In spite of all advances in primary maternal care, delivery and early new born care respiratory distress is still the most common cause of morbidity and NICU admission in newborn babies.

Comparative Study on Umbilical Cord Serum Prolactin Levels of Normal Preterm Neonates and Preterm Neonates with Respiratory Distress Syndrome

Introduction: Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) is the most common cause of respiratory distress, morbidity, and mortality associated with premature delivery. Prolactin is present in very high concentrations in amniotic fluid, and prolactin receptors are present in lung preparations. Prolactin acts as a direct trigger of lecithin synthesis or in a “chain reaction” along the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis. Thus, prolactin seems to have a role in lung maturation along with many other factors through a complex mechanism. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the umbilical cord serum prolactin levels of preterm infants with and without RDS. Materials and Methods: This was a hospital-based comparative observational study carried out at neonatal units of the department of pediatric medicine in a tertiary care center from April 2019 to May 2020. Out of a total of 80 preterm infants, 40 developed RDS and other 40 served as controls. Umbilical cord blood prolactin levels in neonates were measured in both groups and compared. Chi-square test and an unpaired Student’s t-test were used for statistical analysis. Probability was considered significant if <0.05. Results: The mean weight of babies was 1312.50 ± 134.30 g in the normal preterm group and 1285.80 ± 314.76 g in the preterm RDS group (P = 0.622). The mean gestational age was 32.1 ± 1.39 weeks in the normal preterm group and 31.77 ± 2.10 weeks in the preterm RDS group (P = 0.418). The mean serum prolactin levels were slightly high in the female preterm RDS group (P = 0.533). The mean cord prolactin levels in all the gestational ages were higher in normal preterm as compared to preterm with RDS (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Prolactin level was significantly associated with gestational age and birth weight. Low prolactin levels were significantly associated with the development of RDS in preterm babies. The easily available cord blood can be used to measure prolactin levels at birth to predict RDS.

Effect of inhaled budesonide therapy in term newborns with meconium aspiration syndrome

Background: Meconium aspiration syndrome is a common cause of respiratory distress in neonates. This study explores the possibility of altering the course of the disease by using anti-inflammatory agents to counter the chemical and inflammatory pneumonitis caused by meconium. The objective is to determine if inhaled budesonide therapy can alter the clinical course of the disease and improve outcome without causing any serious adverse effects. Methods: A comparative study was conducted in NICU of Cheluvamba hospital, Mysore over 12 months. Neonates with MAS were divided into interventional and control groups. Interventional group received budesonide nebulization 12th hourly starting after 6 hours of life, while control group received saline nebulization 12 hourly. Data was analysed by SPSS 20 software and student t test and chi square test were used to assess statistical significance. Results: The patient profile of the two groups was similar, with the interventional group showing early normalization of Downes score compared to controls. The duration of respiratory distress, oxygen dependency, and duration of hospital stay was significantly less in the steroid treated group compared to controls. There was no significant difference in the incidence of sepsis between the two groups, and three patients died during hospital stay due to pneumothorax with overwhelming sepsis with DIC. Conclusions: Nebulized budesonide improves clinical outcome in terms of morbidity and is relatively safe, however long term follow up required to recommend inhalational steroids as safe and effective.

Next-generation sequencing-based detection of Ureaplasma in the gastric fluid of neonates with respiratory distress and chorioamnionitis

Background Respiratory distress is common in neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care units. Additionally, infectious diseases such as intrauterine infections or vertical transmission are important underlying causes of respiratory failure. However, pathogens often cannot be identified in neonates, and there are many cases in which antibacterial drugs are empirically administered. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is advantageous in that it can detect trace amounts of bacteria that cannot be detected by culturing or bacteria that are difficult to cultivate. However, there are few reports on the diagnosis of infectious diseases using NGS in the neonatal field, especially those targeting respiratory distress. Objective The purpose of our study was to investigate the microorganisms associated with neonatal respiratory distress and to determine whether less invasive collection specimens such as plasma and gastric fluid are useful. Methods Neonates were prospectively recruited between January and August 2020 from Nagoya University Hospital. The inclusion criteria were as follows: 1) admission to the neonatal intensive care unit; 2) respiratory distress presentation within 48 h of birth; and 3) suspected infection, collection of blood culture, and administration of antibiotics. Plasma samples and blood cultures were simultaneously collected. Gastric fluid samples were also collected if the patient was not started on enteral nutrition. Information on the patients and their mothers were collected from the medical records. DNA was extracted from 140 µL of plasma and gastric fluid samples. DNA sequencing libraries were prepared, and their quality was analyzed. DNA libraries were sequenced using high-throughput NGS. The NGS data of plasma and gastric fluid samples were analyzed using the metagenomic pipeline PATHDET, which calculated the number of reads assigned to microorganisms and their relative abundance. Putative pathogens were listed. Results Overall, 30 plasma samples and 25 gastric fluid samples from 30 neonates were analyzed. Microorganism-derived reads of gastric fluid samples were significantly higher than those of plasma samples. Transient tachypnea of the newborn was the most common cause of respiratory distress with 13 cases (43%), followed by respiratory distress syndrome with 7 cases (23%). There were 8 cases (29%) of chorioamnionitis and 7 cases (25%) of funisitis pathologically diagnosed. All blood cultures were negative, and only two gastric fluid cultures were positive for group B Streptococcus (Patient 15) and Candida albicans (Patient 24). Putative pathogens that met the positive criteria for PATHET were detected in four gastric fluid samples, one of which was group B Streptococcus from Patient 15. In the gastric fluid sample of Patient 24, Candida albicans were detected by NGS but did not meet the positive criteria for PATHDET. Cluster analysis of the plasma samples divided them into two study groups, and the indicator genera of each cluster (Phormidium or Toxoplasma) are shown in Figure 1. Clinical findings did not show any significant differences between the two groups. Cluster analysis of the gastric fluid samples divided them into three study groups, and the indicator genera of each cluster (Ureaplasma, Nostoc, and Streptococcus) are shown in Figure 2. The incidence rate of chorioamnionitis was significantly higher in Ureaplasma group than in the other two groups. Conclusion Gastric fluid may be useful for assessing neonatal patients with respiratory distress. To the best of our knowledge, this was the first study to reveal that the presence of Ureaplasma in the gastric fluid of neonates with respiratory distress was associated with chorioamnionitis. The early diagnosis of intra-amniotic infections using gastric fluid and its treatment may change the treatment strategy for neonatal respiratory distress. Screening for Ureaplasma in neonates with respiratory distress may reduce the need for empirical antibiotic administration. Further research is required to confirm these findings.

“A STUDY TO CORRELATE RISK FACTORS AND OUTCOMES WITH MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY PATTERN OF RESPIRATORY DISTRESS IN NEONATES IN NICU OF A TERTIARY CARE CENTRE IN RURAL SETUP”

Background: One of the most frequent illnesses in the rst 48 to 72 hours of neonatal life is respiratory distress. The most frequent reason for NICU hospitalization and the leading cause of morbidity in newborn is respiratory distress. The present study is aimed to determine and correlate the incidence, risk factors, causes and outcomes of respiratory distress in neonates in a neonatal intensive care unit of a tertiary care facility. Impressive outcomes are achieved when neonatal respiratory illness is diagnosed early and managed with appropriate interventions. Material & Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted for a period of 18 months in the inborn & outborn NICU of Department of Pediatrics, Index Medical College Hospital & Research Centre, Indore after valid approval from Institutional ethics committee on. 100 babies who presented with respiratory distress irrespective of their status at time of delivery (preterm, term or post term) and qualied the inclusion criteria were enrolled after taking written informed consent from the parents/caretakers. Following the admission of the newborn, data were recorded in the predesigned proforma. Statistical analysis was done with P value <0.05 signicant. Out Results: of 100 babies included in the study, 62 were males while 38 were females. Pulmonary cause was the most frequent cause of respiratory distress in newborn out of which TTNB (33%) was the commonest followed by RDS (20%). Prematurity (37%), MSAF (18%), Caesarean section against precipitous labour (9.5%), obstruction/non progression of labour (8%) were the major risk factors to develop. 58% of babies were born via LSCS with MSAF (24.1%), previous Caesarean section (20.7%) and obstructed labour (13.8%) as the main indications. Under treatment intervention,62 (62%) babies required only Oxygen while 20 babies (20%) required CPAP and 18 babies (18%) required mechanical ventilation. Morbidity was seen in 34% of newborns with RD which included sepsis, ROP, IVH, HIE, BPD. Out of 20 deaths,14 babies (70%) were males, and 6 babies (30%) were females. In Conclusion: cidence of respiratory distress was 9.8% among live births. Transient tachypnea of the newborn is the most common cause of respiratory distress in newborn. Antenatal risk factors increase the incidence of RD. Risk factors like Prematurity, meconium-stained liquor, cesarean delivered newborns, obstructed labour, Oligo/polyhydramnios, foetal distress, PROM was associated with respiratory distress in newborns. Prematurity is the most common and most important risk factor for the development of RD in newborn. There was male predominance & most of the babies were delivered via caesarean section. Frequency and severity of RD is inversely related to gestational age and birth weight. Early term and preterm babies constituted majority of the babies with respiratory distress. Most of the babies had mild to moderate respiratory distress with Downe's score between 2-6. RDS was the most common cause for CPAP and ventilation. The mortality rate was 20% among the respiratory distress cases admitted in NICU, rest 80% survived. The most common cause of death was RDS. Early diagnosis and identication of causes of respiratory distress in neonate is critical in the management. The neonatal outcome will improve with efforts made to prevent preterm birth, identify various maternal risk factors and intervene early with appropriate interventions.

A study of risk factors and clinical characteristics of neonatal pneumonia in a tertiary care centre

Background: Neonatal pneumonia accounts for significant morbidity and mortality, especially in developing countries. Throughout childhood, the greatest risk of death from pneumonia is in the neonatal period. This study is done to study the risk factors and clinical characteristics of neonatal pneumonia. Aim of the study was to study the risk factors and clinical characteristics of neonatal pneumonia. Methods: This was a hospital-based observational study conducted in the department of paediatrics, Gandhi medical college and hospital, Hyderabad. A detailed antenatal and postnatal risk factors were taken, and the clinical signs and symptoms of neonatal pneumonia were noted. Results: Of the 100 neonates 30% of cases had early onset pneumonia and 70% had late onset pneumonia.50% of early onset pneumonia cases had antenatal risk factors. There is a statistically significant association of age of onset of pneumonia with gestational age (p=0.002) late onset pneumonia being more common >37 weeks of gestational age. 80% of early onset pneumonia cases were associated with septicaemia. Conclusions: Pneumonia is one of the most common causes of respiratory distress in neonates. Late onset pneumonia was more common. Major predisposing factors for early onset pneumonia are antenatal risk factors like premature rupture of membranes, maternal fever, major predisposing factors for late onset pneumonia are pre-lacteals, oil instillation in the nose, and aspiration of milk. Cough as a symptom was observed in late onset pneumonia.

91 The impact of non-pharmaceutical public health interventions on hospital admissions and mortality from common causes of pediatric respiratory distress: a single center perspective

Abstract Background In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, jurisdictions around the world implemented policies to reduce COVID-19 transmission through public masking, travel restrictions, and closure of non-essential businesses. Collectively known as non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPI), these strategies reliably reduce the spread of COVID-19. International data suggests NPI also reduce hospitalizations for pediatric respiratory infections and their consequences, particularly asthma exacerbation. However, few Canadian studies have examined the impact of NPI on hospitalizations for common causes of pediatric respiratory distress. Objectives This study describes the impact of NPI on admissions for bronchiolitis, pneumonia, and asthma at a Canadian pediatric tertiary care centre. Design/Methods A retrospective chart review was conducted including all pediatric patients <18 years admitted to the general pediatric and pediatric intensive care units with bronchiolitis, pneumonia, or asthma. Data regarding diagnosis, length of hospitalization, and mortality were collected before (September 2016-March 2020) and in the 6 months after provincial NPI implementation (March 2020-September 2020). NPI were present throughout this period, however, specific measures varied due to evolving public health orders. Chi-squared testing was conducted to describe the impact of NPI on number of admissions, length of hospitalization, and mortality. Results Participants (n=1631) included 111 (6.8%) patients <1 month, 878 (53.8%) patients 1-23 months, 331 (20.3%) patients 24 months-4 years, and 311 (19.1%) patients ≥5 years. A mean of 205 patients were admitted every 6 months with respiratory distress (bronchiolitis, pneumonia, and/or asthma) prior to NPI implementation. During this timeframe, the 6-month mean admissions due to asthma, pneumonia, and bronchiolitis were 48, 56, and 101, respectively. In the 6 months following NPI implementation, there were 56 admissions for respiratory distress, including 15 for asthma, 19 for pneumonia, and 22 for bronchiolitis. Mean length of stay increased following the implementation of NPI from 8.49 to 11.68 days, whereas 6-month mean mortality decreased from two to zero deaths. Results did not attain statistical significance (p>0.05). Conclusion Results suggest NPI reduce hospitalizations and mortality from bronchiolitis, pneumonia, and asthma. Given the similar seasonality of these conditions, periodic use of NPI beyond the COVID-19 pandemic may reduce pediatric morbidity and mortality from common causes of respiratory distress. However, additional research is needed to describe the relationship between NPI and length of hospitalization. Future studies should also examine the impact of NPI on other pediatric infectious diseases to better characterize their utility.

Respiratory Distress in the Pediatric ED: A Case-based Self-directed Learning Module.

Emergency medicine residents, pediatric residents on an EM rotation. Emergency medicine residents are expected to recognize and treat patients of all ages and diseases of all varieties, yet most education and training is focused on the adult patient. Exposure to pediatrics is generally integrated into training across all years of residency, but time spent in the pediatric emergency department is still a small portion of resident education. This module aims to enhance the ability of the emergency medicine residents to recognize and treat respiratory distress in children, one of the most common presenting chief complaints in the pediatric population, by integrating the concepts of case-based learning, self-directed learning and self-testing. By the end of this module, learners will be able to: 1) recognize the unique pathophysiology for respiratory distress in the pediatric population and formulate a broad differential; 2) understand the treatment principles for the most common causes of respiratory distress in children; 3) navigate and apply validated clinical decision-making tools for treatment of pediatric respiratory illnesses. A learning module consisting of six clinical vignettes based on the most common causes of respiratory distress in children, with associated self-test questions, and key learning concepts was created for resident education. This module was a self-directed PowerPoint slideshow with embedded questions and links to evidence-based clinical decision-making tools. A survey was created to gauge the residents' perceptions of the learning module and its usefulness in their learning. Twenty (30%) residents used this module and took the survey. Ninety percent of respondents felt more comfortable managing respiratory distress in children after completing this module. Ninety-five percent of respondents felt they had sufficient knowledge of the topic after completing the module and would like to have more modules such as this one on other topics. Residents indicated in the survey that the module enhanced their knowledge and comfort with clinical practice. This unique learning module integrates basic and clinical sciences and utilizes many different learning concepts to engage and motivate the adult learner. The module may also be re-created in order to cover other similar topics as a supplement to resident education. Pediatrics, respiratory, infectious disease, asthma, croup, anaphylaxis, foreign body aspiration, bronchiolitis, laryngomalacia.

SIGNS AND ETIOLOGIES OF RESPIRATORY DISTRESS AMONG MECHANICALLY VENTILATED PATIENTS ATTENDING CHITWAN MEDICAL COLLEGE, BHARATPUR

Background: Respiratory distress (RD) in mechanically ventilated patients may signify life-threatening complications which may be potentially reversible. The aim of the study was to determine the signs and etiologies of respiratory distress in patients under mechanical ventilation. Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was done on adult patients on mechanical ventilation (MV) with Respiratory distress admitted at Chitwan Medical College, Nepal from January 2021 to June 2021.We studied various signs and etiologies of RD in different days on MV. Descriptive analysis was carried out using IBM SPSS version 20. Results: Total 66 patients were included in the study with mean ± SD of age was 55.3 ± 15.8 years with equal proportion of male and female. Out of total 154 occurrences of 11 signs in 66 patients, agitation was the most common one occurring 29.3% of times followed by use of accessory muscle in 15.9%. Most common cause of respiratory distress was interstitial syndrome of increased extra-vascular lung water or density on ultrasound was present more in patients on MV for ≥ 5 days. Most patients (74.2%) had multiple RD signs and 25.8% had only a single sign. Gasping was more common in patients on MV ≥ 5 days and agitation and delirium more in early days of MV. Conclusions: More than half of the conditions associated with RD on MV are relatively reversible and as the patients can develop RD any time or any day after being put on MV, a continued vigilance system is essential for their timely assessment and management.

Role of budesonide inhalation in treatment of meconium-aspiration syndrome

Background and aim Meconium-aspiration syndrome (MAS) is a common cause of respiratory distress. MAS is a serious disease that affects neonates born through meconium-stained amniotic fluid. The pathophysiology of MAS is multifactorial, inflammation has an important role in MAS, so anti-inflammatory drugs like corticosteroids may be effective in the treatment of MAS. Budesonide is a nonhalogenated glucocorticoid that can reduce vascular permeability, inhibit secretion of mucus, relieve edema and spasm, and help pulmonary ventilation. In this study we aimed to find out the effect of early nebulized budesonide in the treatment of MAS. Patients and methods This was a prospective study conducted during the period from October 2017 to July 2018 at El-Minia General Hospital and Al-Azhar University Hospital, Assiut. Intervention: budesonide inhalation in a dose of 50 mg every 12 h till clinical recovery, whichever was earlier. Results The present study revealed that nebulized budesonide improves the clinical outcome of newborns with MAS in terms of lowering the duration of O2 dependency, duration of respiratory distress, duration of hospital stay, duration of radiograph clearance, time for full feeding (P<0.001), and thus early discharge from the NICU. Conclusion Early nebulized budesonide is effective in treating MAS and has high safety with almost no short-term complications.

Performing an upper airway examination in dogs.

Increased airway resistance due to upper airway obstruction is a common cause of respiratory distress. An upper airway exam is an inexpensive and quick diagnostic procedure that can serve to localize a disease process, confirm a definitive diagnosis, and offer therapeutic benefits. The upper airway examination consists of an external evaluation of the head and neck as well as a sedated examination of the oral cavity, the pharyngeal cavity, larynx, and nasal passages. An upper airway examination should be performed in patients with increased inspiratory effort or increased upper respiratory noise (eg, stertor or stridor). A complete, sedated upper airway examination should be considered for patients with clinical signs of upper airway disease for which a cause is not obvious from the physical examination. Indications for an upper airway examination include sneezing, nasal discharge or epistaxis, reduced or absent nasal airflow, change in phonation, inspiratory difficulty, and audible respiratory sounds. Upper airway examination helps localize pathological processes and allows the clinician to confirm or exclude several differential diagnoses. Pre-oxygenation of the patient for 3-5 minutes prior to sedation will help increase the amount of time available before hypoxemia occurs, should complications arise. Upon completion of the upper airway examination, it is important to monitor the patient carefully and ensure a safe recovery. Careful planning to ensure the availability of necessary equipment and preparation of the team to react during and after the airway examination will minimize the risks of examination to patients with upper airway disease.

Respiratory obstruction due to tonsillar lymphoglandular polyp in a brachycephalic dog: a case report

BackgroundRespiratory distress is one of the most common afflictions of brachycephalic dogs. Dogs in respiratory distress usually present to the emergency service with a constellation of clinical signs including but not limited to: stertorous breathing, dyspnea, gagging, cyanotic mucus membranes, hyperthermia, and commonly a history of gastrointestinal signs. While Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome is the most common cause of respiratory distress in dogs with brachycephalic conformation, any condition eliciting an inflammatory response in the oropharynx, can result in obstruction. There is no previous report of respiratory obstruction leading to emergency tonsillectomy caused by tonsillar polyps.Case presentationA 9-month-old male intact English bulldog presented to the emergency service in severe respiratory distress. Due to continued severe dyspnea and cyanosis the patient was induced with propofol (Propofol, Hospira) 4 mg/kg intravenously titrated to effect and tracheal intubation performed. Intubation was noted to be difficult due the presence of two, large, inflamed masses in the oropharynx region. The remainder of his physical exam was unremarkable. Minimum database blood work and chest radiographs revealed only minor abnormalities. The patient was placed under anesthesia and the masses were transected sharply using a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser (Aesculight, Bothell, WA, USA). Anesthesia and recovery were uneventful, and the patient was discharged the following day. Histopathology results of the masses revealed them to be benign lymphoglandular polyps.ConclusionsThis is the first report of bilateral tonsillar polyps causing life-threatening respiratory obstruction in a dog. Both masses were excised safely and completely with the CO2 laser. Difficulties inherent to oropharyngeal surgery include the hemorrhage, small working space, tissue swelling and difficult visualization. Surgical excision of these polyps alleviated all emergent and chronic clinical signs, and the patient’s remains healthy 12-months post-treatment.

INCIDENCE AND ETIOLOGY OF RESPRATORY DISTRESS IN LOW BIRTH WEIGHT NEONATES BORN IN RURAL TERTIARY CARE CENTRE.

Background : To Study The Incidence And Etiology Of Respratory Distress In Low Birth Weight Neonates Born In Rural Tertiary Care Centre. Methods: This is a prospective observational study. It was carried out in neonatal division of department Of pediatrics MMIMSR, Mullana. The study included 200 low birth weight neonates born during the study period. Results: Out of 200 neonates 63 had respiratory distress. The incidence of respiratory distress in index study was 31.5%. According to weight distribution the incidence of respiratory distress among neonates with 1.5kg to 2.499kg was 27.6% , 1kg to <1.5kg was 57.1% and <1kg was 100%. According to gestation the incidence of respiratory distress among term was 29.8% and preterm was 33.6%. The most common cause of respiratory distress was transient tachypnea of newborn(33.8%) followed by hyaline membrane disease(24.1%), sepsis(17.7%), apnea(9.6%), CVS disorder(6.4%). Conclusion: Low birth weight and preterm deliveries are at higher risk for morbidity during and after the birth. Early antenatal care will greatly reduce the incidence of respiratory distress syndrome in neonates. The incidence increases as birth weight and gestation decreases in neonates Due to recent medical advances and skilled clinical practice the incidence of RDS has decreased. Transient tachypnea of newborn remains the main etiology of respiratory distress in neonates.

Effects of Inhaled Salbutamol on Transient Tachypnea of the Newborn.

One of the most common causes of respiratory distress in newborns is transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN). Salbutamol is often suggested to increase the rate of pulmonary fluid absorption in newborns with TTN. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of inhaled salbutamol in TTN management. This double-blind clinical trial was conducted on 52 newborns admitted to the neonatal ICU of Fatemieh Hospital of Hamadan, Iran. The newborns were randomly assigned to 2 groups of equal members: one group received 2 mL of nebulized sodium chloride concentration (control group), and the other group was treated with 0.1 mg/kg of salbutamol (treatment group). The clinical outcomes were then compared before and 0.5, 1, and 4 h after the intervention. The data were recorded in a checklist and then were statistically analyzed in SPSS 16: the significant level was decided to be P < .05. The comparison of TTN scores revealed a significant difference between the 2 groups 1 h (P = .005) and 4 h (P < .001 per Table 3) after the intervention. Moreover, the mean FIO2 1 h after the intervention was 53.3 ± 6.6 in the treatment group and 57.7 ± 7.5 in the control group (P = .02). The mean duration of respiratory support in the treatment and control groups was 2.4 ± 2.7 and 3.1 ± 0.8 d, respectively, (P = .002). The findings suggested no statistically significant difference between the 2 groups regarding the adverse effects, length of stay (LOS), duration of antibiotics intake, oral feeding resumption time, and maximum oral feeding time (P > .05 for all). The study results indicated that inhaled salbutamol significantly decreased the TTN clinical score, oxygen demands, and duration of respiratory support, whereas there was no significant difference between the groups in terms of LOS.

The use of immature granulocyte and other complete blood count parameters in the diagnosis of transient tachypnea of the newborn

BackgroundAlthough Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN) is one of the most common causes of respiratory distress in the newborn period, there is no laboratory parameter used to diagnose it. Immatur granulocyte (IG) measurement is accepted as a useful indicator that can be used in early detection of many infectious conditions, especially neonatal sepsis. In this study, it was aimed to determine if IG and other complete blood count (CBC) parameters could be used as laboratory findings supporting TTN diagnosis. Materials and methodsThis study, which was retrospectively planned, was conducted in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) a public hospital between January 1, 2019 and January 31, 2021. Randomly selected 50 infants, hospitalized with the diagnosis of TTN, constituted the patient group of the study. 50 infants hospitalized with the diagnosis of hyperbilirubinemia and did not have any additional problems accepted as the control group. IG and other CBC parameters of infants in the patient and control groups were compared in the study. ResultsThere was no significant difference between the patient and control groups in terms of demographic data and types of delivery (p > 0.05). The rate of delivery by elective cesarean section (C/S) was significantly higher than the rate of normal spontaneous vaginal (NSV) delivery in the patient group (p < 0.001). The IG number and percentage, WBC (white blood cell) count, RDW (red cell distribution width), number and percentage of NRBC (nucleated red blood cell), neutrophil and lymphocyte ratio, count and percentage of basophil and PLR (platelet/lymphocyte ratio) of the patient group was significantly higher than the control group (p < 0.05). ConclusionAccording to the findings obtained in the study, it was concluded that IG and other CBC parameters may be used to support clinical and imaging findings to diagnose transient tachypnea of the newborn.

Surgical cause of respiratory distress in a newborn

Common causes of respiratory distress in a term infant include transient tachypnoea of newborn, sepsis/congenital pneumonia and congenital heart diseases. Surgical causes of distress in a newborn are rare and should be considered when other causes have been ruled out. We report a case of an early term female neonate who developed respiratory distress immediately after birth which was gradually progressive and required respiratory support. On evaluation with chest radiography and CT, a diagnosis of congenital lobar emphysema (CLE) was made. Immediate surgical resection was planned and done on day 8 of life. Post operatively she had no respiratory distress and discharged within a week. Baby is now healthy with normal growth and development. Half of the cases of CLE are diagnosed within the first 6 months of life but very few cases present with respiratory distress since birth. Timely diagnosis and early surgical excision in neonates &lt;2 months improve the outcome, as seen in our case.