Final answer:
Hyaline membrane disease (HMD), also known as respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), is a condition that primarily affects premature newborns. It occurs due to a lack of surfactant in the lungs, which leads to difficulty in breathing.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hyaline membrane disease (HMD), also known as respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), is a condition that primarily affects premature newborns. It occurs due to a lack of surfactant in the lungs, which leads to difficulty in breathing. The hyaline membranes form in the alveoli, making it harder for the baby to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide.
This disease is more common in premature infants because surfactant production usually begins in the last trimester of pregnancy. The primary risk factors for HMD include preterm birth, male gender, maternal diabetes, cesarean section delivery, and lack of antenatal corticosteroid treatment.
Management of HMD typically involves providing respiratory support, including the administration of oxygen and artificial surfactant. Interventions may also include temperature regulation, antibiotics to prevent infection, and nutritional support. With proper medical care, the majority of newborns with HMD can recover and develop normally.