Final answer:
A deficiency in pulmonary surfactant is mainly seen in premature infants, especially those born before 28 weeks of gestation, leading to complications such as infant respiratory distress syndrome. Adequate surfactant is critical for reducing alveolar surface tension and enabling proper lung inflation. Treatment can involve administering surfactant to alleviate symptoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
Deficiency in Pulmonary Surfactant
A deficiency in pulmonary surfactant is primarily seen in premature infants, particularly those born before 28 weeks of gestation. Sufficient pulmonary surfactant is crucial for reducing the surface tension of the alveoli, which allows the lungs to inflate properly. Preterm infants often develop infant respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), as they lack adequate levels of surfactant to keep their air sacs from collapsing with each breath, making breathing difficult and possibly leading to continued lung damage along with hypoxia and acidosis.
The first inhalation after birth for full-term infants is facilitated by the presence of surfactant, and it's critical to inflate the lungs effectively. In premature births around 26 weeks or earlier, not only is there insufficient production of surfactant, but the structures for gas exchange haven't adequately developed, leading to high mortality rates and severe respiratory distress. Treatment for conditions like hyaline membrane disease, which is associated with insufficient surfactant, can include administering surfactant into the infant's respiratory passages to aid in lung inflation and breathing.