Evaluation of respiratory distress syndrome on chest A-P view in premature baby and L. B. W. I. in Korea

Early chest roentgenogram before the appearance of symptoms is extremely important. Continuous follow-up check is also necessary. The evaluation of neonatal respiratory distress and its assessment has led to the recognition of many abnormal roentgenographic patterns especially in premature baby including low birth infant. A closer observation of chest roentgenogram is necessary in view of 'delayed resorption of pulmonary alveolar fluids' in the early stage of life in premature baby and L. B. W. I. We have reviewed the chest roentgenogram of 110 premature babies including low birth weight infants in whom a clinical or roentgenographic diagnosis of R. D. S. and 'delayed resorption of pulmonary alveolar fluids' was made during the period January 1979-June 1980. The results are as follows; 1. On the simple chest roentgenogram only, R. D. S. has higher incidence in male infant (28:17). 2. Clinically the incidence of R. D. S. is 46.2% in premature baby, and 13.3% in L. B. W. I. 3. The onset of clinical symptom is in the range of approximately 6 hours to 40 hours after birth. And simple chest A-P taken as early as possible is helpful in detection and prevention of R. D. S. And follow up check after development of symptom is important to diagnose and differentiate type I from type II. 4. The incidence of R. D. S. on simple chest roentgenogram is 9.1% in type I, 16.4% in type II and 1 case in SUS. I group, and 14.5% in SUS. II group. 5. 26.5% of premature baby with normal delivery and 33.3% of those delivered by C-section shows delayed pulmonary alveolar fluids. 6. Premature is the main cause of R. D. S. with incidence of 38.4%, and C-sec. is increased in motality rate due to R. D. S