Objectives: Respiratory distress is one of the most common causes of neonatal morbidity and mortality and frequently requires admission to neonatal intensive care units. It may result from various aetiologies including transient tachypnoea of the newborn (TTNB), respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), meconium aspiration syndrome and neonatal infections. Early recognition and timely management are crucial to improve neonatal outcomes. The objective of the study is to evaluate the clinical profile, aetiological factors and outcomes of respiratory distress among newborns in a tertiary care hospital in Bengaluru. Material and Methods: This hospital-based observational study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital in Bangalore. A total of 640 newborns delivered during the study period were included in the study. Neonates presenting with clinical signs of respiratory distress such as tachypnoea, chest retractions, nasal flaring, grunting or cyanosis were evaluated. Data regarding gender, gestational age, birth weight, appearance, pulse, grimace, activity, respiration (APGAR) score and mode of delivery were recorded. The severity and aetiology of respiratory distress were determined based on clinical assessment and relevant investigations. Neonatal outcomes including recovery and mortality were also assessed. Results: Among 640 neonates, 127 (19.8%) developed respiratory distress. Respiratory distress was slightly more common in male neonates (65 cases) compared to females (62 cases). Prematurity and low birth weight were important risk factors, with a higher incidence observed among extreme preterm and very low birth weight infants. Respiratory distress was also observed more frequently among neonates delivered by caesarean section. The majority of cases were mild in severity (64.6%), followed by moderate and severe forms. The most common cause was TTNB (44.9%), followed by RDS (21.3%) and neonatal infections (16.5%). Among the affected neonates, three deaths were recorded. Conclusion: Respiratory distress remains an important contributor to neonatal morbidity. Early identification of risk factors and prompt management can significantly improve neonatal outcomes and reduce complications.
Srinivasiah et al. (Thu,) studied this question.