Seminars in perinatology
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Seminars in perinatology · Jul 1988
ReviewBiophysical behavior of lung surfactant: implications for respiratory physiology and pathophysiology.
The major emphasis of this article has been the complex, multicomponent system of surfactants that are required for proper pulmonary mechanics and function in the mammalian lung. Although LS was discovered over 30 years ago, and soon after was linked directly with neonatal RDS, it has taken a significant time for researchers to develop a fundamental understanding of the pulmonary surfactant system, and its actions and roles in respiratory physiology. Nonetheless, knowledge about LS has increased greatly over the past decade, and it is now clear that exogenous surfactant replacement therapy for infants with RDS provides a substantial clinical advantage for these patients. ⋯ In dealing with ARDS, it is well to remember that there are a variety of complicating factors, since lung injuries vary with animal age and species, and according to the level and duration of exposure. For example, in the hyperoxic injury described in the previous section there was clearly significant LS involvement. However, had animals been subjected to a lower level of oxygen (eg, 60%), even for a comparatively long time (eg, 21 days), the entire pathologic pattern would have been altered, as demonstrated, for example, by Holm et al.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
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Infants with platelet counts below 100,000/mm3 should be evaluated for the cause of the thrombocytopenia. A maternal history to determine previous illnesses and particularly thrombocytopenia, drugs taken, and perinatal complications is important, and a maternal platelet count must be obtained. Physical examination of the infant is revealing in the TAR and giant cavernous hemangioma syndromes and may suggest intrauterine infection. ⋯ In ill infants treatment of the underlying problem often results in resolution of the thrombocytopenia. Transfusions should be used for the bleeding child and for the infant with severe thrombocytopenia who is the product of a vaginal delivery. In addition to being therapeutic, platelet transfusions may also assist in diagnosis.