Clinical characteristics, diagnosis, and management outcome of surfactant deficiency respiratory distress syndrome in term and near-term neonates. A retrospective observational study

AIM: This study aims to describe the clinical characteristics of SRDS in term and late preterm neonates. METHODS: This is an observation retrospective chart review of full-term and late preterm neonates born older than 35 to 41 weeks gestation age diagnosed with SRDS. The diagnosis was based on clinical & radiological manifestations of SRDS. RESULTS: 1547 neonates were admitted during this period to NICU with a diagnosis of increased work of breathing for further management. 117 cases of term and near-term neonates (mean GA = 36.8 wks) had a confirmed diagnosis of Surfactant deficiency SRDS. Who compared 60 preterm neonates with SRDS less than 35 weeks gestation (mean GA 27.5 wks) as a control. The mean birth weight was 2.8 kg vs 1.1 kg in the preterm group. SRDS occurs more among the male gender (58%), with CS in 78.6% of all diagnosed cases. No apparent cause was found in 28.2%, while 37.6% of all cases were born to mothers with diabetes mellitus, and 27% were born to mothers with either GBs infection, maternal chorioamnionitis, or prolonged rupture of the membrane. CONCLUSION: SRDS is not uncommon among full-term and near-term neonates (10/1000 live birth). By far, the most common associated risk factors are maternal diabetes mellitus and cesarean section. It affects males more than females. Most cases will run a mild-to-moderate course that responds to non-invasive ventilation. (www.actabiomedica.it)