Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
VLBW
Pronunciation: V-L-B-W
Also written as: VLBW — Very Low Birth Weight
Acronym for very low birth weight, referring to infants weighing less than 1,500 grams at birth.
Full Definition
Very low birth weight (VLBW) is a clinical classification for newborns weighing less than 1,500 grams (approximately 3 pounds 5 ounces) at birth. VLBW infants typically require intensive medical care and are at increased risk for various complications including respiratory distress, feeding difficulties, and developmental delays. This classification is distinct from low birth weight (LBW) and extremely low birth weight (ELBW).
Usage
Usage note: Always written in capitals; spell out on first use in formal documents.
In Context
- "The VLBW infant required immediate ventilatory support upon admission." — Medical record entry
- "VLBW outcomes have improved significantly with advances in neonatal care." — Clinical research paper
Also known as
very low birth weight
Contrasted with
normal birth weight
Don't confuse with
LBW
ELBW