ALTE
Also written as: ALTE — Apparent Life-Threatening Event
Apparent life-threatening event, an episode that appears life-threatening to the observer in an infant.
Full Definition
Apparent life-threatening event (ALTE) is a clinical term used to describe an episode in an infant that appears life-threatening to the observer and is characterized by some combination of apnea, color change, marked change in muscle tone, choking, or gagging. While not exclusively a gastrointestinal condition, ALTE can be associated with gastroesophageal reflux, aspiration, or other digestive disorders in pediatric patients. The event is frightening to caregivers and often prompts emergency medical evaluation. Investigation may include assessment for reflux disease, swallowing disorders, or anatomical abnormalities. The term has largely been replaced by the more specific "brief resolved unexplained event" (BRUE) in recent clinical guidelines.
Usage
Usage note: Term being phased out in favor of BRUE; document specific symptoms observed.
In Context
- "The infant was admitted for evaluation following an ALTE witnessed by the parents." — Emergency department documentation
- "pH probe study was performed to assess for reflux as a potential cause of the ALTE." — Diagnostic workup