Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
respiratory distress syndrome
Breathing disorder in premature infants caused by insufficient surfactant production in immature lungs.
Full Definition
A serious respiratory condition primarily affecting premature infants born before 37 weeks gestation, characterized by difficulty breathing due to inadequate surfactant production. Surfactant is a substance that helps keep the air sacs in the lungs open. Without sufficient surfactant, the lungs collapse, making breathing extremely difficult. RDS is one of the leading causes of respiratory failure in preterm infants and requires immediate medical intervention, often including mechanical ventilation and surfactant replacement therapy.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as RDS in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The 28-week gestational age infant developed severe respiratory distress syndrome requiring intubation within hours of birth." — Clinical notes
- "Antenatal corticosteroid administration significantly reduces the incidence of respiratory distress syndrome in preterm deliveries." — Research paper
Also known as
RDS
hyaline membrane disease
Don't confuse with
transient tachypnea of the newborn
meconium aspiration syndrome