EXPLORING SURFACTANT PROTEIN DEFICIENCY IN NEONATAL RESPIRATORY DISTRESS

Abstract

 Neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among preterm infants, primarily due to surfactant protein deficiency. This study investigates the relationship between surfactant protein levels—specifically SP-A, SP-B, and SP-C—and the clinical severity of RDS, examining their potential role as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. A quantitative observational study was conducted on 100 neonates admitted with respiratory distress within the first 48 hours of life. Clinical parameters including gestational age, birth weight, ventilation modality, NICU stay, and oxygen therapy duration were recorded. Surfactant protein levels were measured using ELISA.Researchers looked at data to find links between deficiencies in surfactants and clinical results, in particular BPD development and death.  The fetuses were born after a 30.1-week pregnancy and their average birth weight was 1497 grammes.  The study revealed that newborns requiring breathing help through tubes had many times fewer surfactant proteins than did infants getting help with regular breathing.  Things like SP-A, SP-B and SP-C all decreased in relationship to the seriousness of the disease as seen on X-ray.  BPD-affected infants were found with lower levels of SP-A (42.0 ng/mL) and needed more oxygen compared to healthy newborns.  A lower birth weight, an early gestational period and longer stays in the intensive care unit were linked to increased risk of death for neonates.  To prove these points, visual studies were done with bar graphs, histograms, boxplots and violin plots.  This research proves that an inadequacy of surfactant proteins is related to more serious illness, the need for greater medical support and bad results for babies with RDS.  A diagnosis given early and plain management choices made with SP-A assessment are most valuable.  Using predictive modelling, non-invasive support and measuring surfactant could help treat newborns more effectively.