Hyaline Membrane Disease (HMD), also known as respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), is a medical condition primarily affecting premature infants, particularly those born before the 37th week of pregnancy. It is characterized by the inadequate production of surfactant, a substance that helps the lungs expand and prevents the alveoli (air sacs) from collapsing after each breath.
The name "Hyaline Membrane Disease" derives from the appearance of the lung tissue under a microscope, which shows a thin, pink membrane covering the alveoli. This membrane is made up of a proteinaceous substance called hyaline, which forms due to a lack of surfactant.
Babies with HMD experience difficulty breathing due to the stiff lungs caused by the collapsed alveoli. Common symptoms include rapid breathing, grunting sounds, flaring of the nostrils, and cyanosis (bluish coloration of the skin due to lack of oxygen). The severity of symptoms varies based on the gestational age and overall health of the infant.
Treatment for HMD includes providing the baby with supplemental oxygen through a nasal cannula or ventilator, as well as administration of exogenous surfactant to improve lung function. In severe cases, the infant may require artificial ventilation. Additionally, other measures like maintaining warm body temperature and ensuring proper nutrition are essential for the overall well-being of the affected infant.
Advancements in neonatal care have significantly improved the outcomes for infants with HMD, but the condition remains a major cause of respiratory distress and neonatal mortality worldwide.
