Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
transient tachypnea of the newborn
A self-limiting respiratory condition in newborns caused by delayed clearance of lung fluid, commonly abbreviated as TTN.
Full Definition
Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN) is a benign, self-limiting condition characterized by rapid breathing due to delayed absorption of fetal lung fluid. This condition typically occurs in term or near-term infants, particularly those born by cesarean section without labor. Symptoms usually resolve within 24-72 hours with supportive care, including oxygen supplementation and monitoring. TTN is one of the most common causes of respiratory distress in term newborns.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as TTN; distinguish from more serious respiratory conditions in documentation.
In Context
- "The term infant's tachypnea resolved spontaneously, confirming the diagnosis of transient tachypnea of the newborn." — discharge summary
- "TTN was suspected based on the cesarean delivery without labor and characteristic chest X-ray findings." — radiology report
Also known as
TTN
wet lung syndrome
retained fetal lung fluid
Contrasted with
normal respiratory adaptation
Don't confuse with
respiratory distress syndrome
pneumonia
meconium aspiration