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Updated: Jun 23, 2026

A Rat Model of Mild Intrauterine Hypoperfusion with Microcoil Stenosis
Published on: January 7, 2018
So, he's a little premature...what's the big deal?
1University of Texas Health Science Center, School of Nursing, 6901 Bertner Avenue, Suite 565, Houston, TX 77459, USA. m.t.verklan@uth.tmc.edu
Insights
Late preterm infants (LPIs) face significant health risks and complications. Understanding their unique challenges is crucial for improving outcomes in this growing population.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Health
- Perinatal Medicine
- Pediatric Epidemiology
Background:
- Late preterm infants (LPIs) represent a rapidly growing segment of preterm births.
- A significant portion of preterm birth-related morbidity is attributed to LPIs.
- LPIs exhibit distinct physiological and developmental trajectories compared to term infants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the epidemiology and etiology of late preterm infants.
- To elucidate the increased risk factors for complications in LPIs.
- To discuss post-discharge healthcare needs and neurodevelopmental outcomes for LPIs.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of epidemiological data on late preterm births.
- Analysis of etiological factors contributing to late preterm birth.
- Synthesis of current research on LPI complications and outcomes.
Main Results:
- LPIs are at higher risk for thermal instability, hypoglycemia, feeding issues, respiratory distress, hyperbilirubinemia, and sepsis.
- Increased emergency department visits post-discharge are noted for LPIs.
- Emerging data suggests potential impacts on neurodevelopmental outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Late preterm infants require targeted medical attention due to their vulnerability.
- Further research is needed to fully understand and mitigate LPI-specific health risks.
- Improved care strategies are essential for optimizing the health and development of LPIs.
Abstract:
Health care providers have recently recognized that a large segment of the morbidity associated with preterm birth is disproportionately due to the late preterm infant (LPI). One explanation is that this population is the fastest-growing sector of all preterm births. This article describes the epidemiology and etiology of the LPI, and discusses why the LPI is at an increased risk for complications, such as thermal instability, hypoglycemia, feeding difficulties, respiratory distress, hyperbilirubinemia, and sepsis. The need for emergency department visits after hospital discharge and what is currently known regarding neurodevelopmental outcomes are also presented.
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