Intermediate
Technical
IVT
surfactant
A substance produced by the lungs that reduces surface tension in the alveoli, preventing lung collapse.
Full Definition
A complex mixture of phospholipids and proteins produced by specialized cells in the lungs called pneumocytes. Surfactant reduces surface tension at the air-liquid interface in the alveoli, preventing the small air sacs from collapsing during expiration. In premature infants, surfactant production is often insufficient, leading to respiratory distress syndrome. Synthetic or animal-derived surfactant can be administered directly into the lungs through an endotracheal tube as a life-saving treatment for affected newborns.
Usage
Usage note: May be capitalized when referring to specific brand name products.
In Context
- "The premature infant received two doses of exogenous surfactant to improve lung compliance." — Treatment notes
- "Surfactant replacement therapy has dramatically improved outcomes for infants with respiratory distress syndrome." — Clinical guidelines
Also known as
pulmonary surfactant