A premature newborn is exhibiting signs of respiratory distress, including tachypnea, nasal flaring, and expiratory grunting. Which of the following is the primary pathophysiological cause of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in this population?
Insufficient production of pulmonary surfactant.
Group B Streptococcus bacterial infection.
Failure of the ductus arteriosus to close after birth.
The primary cause of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in premature newborns is an insufficient amount of pulmonary surfactant. Surfactant is a substance that reduces surface tension in the alveoli, preventing them from collapsing at the end of expiration. Premature infants often have underdeveloped lungs that have not yet produced adequate amounts of surfactant, leading to widespread atelectasis, increased work of breathing, and impaired gas exchange. While meconium aspiration, patent ductus arteriosus, and infection can all cause respiratory distress in newborns, surfactant deficiency is the defining cause of RDS.
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Respiratory Emergencies
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