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Respiratory syncytial virus-related apnea in infants. Demographics and outcome
Insights
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection causes apnea in 18% of infants, particularly premature newborns. While RSV apnea is linked to prematurity, it doesn't increase later apnea risk.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Neonatology
Background:
- Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of respiratory illness in infants.
- Apnea, or pauses in breathing, is a known complication in infants, especially premature ones.
- The relationship between RSV infection and apnea requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of RSV-associated apnea in hospitalized infants.
- To identify risk factors for developing apnea during RSV infection.
- To assess the risk of subsequent apnea or death in infants with RSV-associated apnea.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of medical records for 261 hospitalized infants under one year old with confirmed RSV infection.
- Analysis of patient demographics, gestational age, postnatal age, and history of apnea.
- Statistical evaluation to identify risk factors and subsequent outcomes.
Main Results:
- 18% of infants with RSV infection experienced apnea.
- Premature birth and young postnatal age were significant risk factors for RSV-associated apnea.
- Infants born at or before 32 weeks gestational age with apnea of prematurity were at higher risk for RSV apnea.
- Infants with RSV apnea did not show an increased risk for subsequent apnea.
- Two of the 48 infants with RSV apnea died within the first year of life.
Conclusions:
- RSV-associated apnea in hospitalized infants may stem from immature respiratory drive.
- Prematurity is a key risk factor for developing apnea with RSV infection.
- While RSV apnea itself may not increase future apnea risk, close monitoring is crucial due to potential mortality.
Abstract:
Medical records of 261 hospitalized patients less than 1 year old with documented respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection were reviewed to determine the incidence of RSV-associated apnea and the accompanying risk of subsequent apnea or death. Apnea in association with RSV infection occurred in 18% of the infants. Premature birth and a young postnatal age were risk factors for development of apnea with RSV disease. Apnea of prematurity appeared to be a significant risk factor for RSV apnea development in infants with a gestational age of 32 weeks or less at birth, but infants with RSV apnea did not appear to be at risk for subsequent apnea. These results suggested that in hospitalized infants, RSV apnea may be related to immaturity of respiratory drive. Two of the 48 infants with RSV apnea subsequently died during the first year of life.