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32wk premie has dyspnea, RR of 80 with nasal flaring. CXR: ground glass opacities with air bronchogram and atelectasis. dx? prenatal dx and antenatal tx? pathophys? tx?

User Igor Rivin
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

The diagnosis is respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), which is common in premature infants. Treatment involves supportive measures like supplemental oxygen, mechanical ventilation, and pulmonary surfactant administration.

Step-by-step explanation:

The diagnosis for the infant is respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). RDS is commonly seen in premature infants and is caused by insufficient production of pulmonary surfactant, which affects proper lung inflation and gas exchange. Symptoms include dyspnea, nasal flaring, and ground glass opacities with air bronchogram and atelectasis on chest X-ray.

Prenatal diagnosis of RDS is not generally possible, but antenatal treatment can include administering corticosteroids to the mother to promote lung maturity in the fetus. The pathophysiology of RDS involves inadequate surfactant leading to decreased lung compliance and impaired gas exchange.

The treatment for RDS includes supportive measures such as supplemental oxygen, mechanical ventilation, nasal continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), and administration of pulmonary surfactant. Other supportive therapies may be utilized, such as temperature regulation, nutritional support, and antibiotics if needed.

User Masako
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