Physiologic Underpinnings for C l i n i c a l P ro b l e m s in Mo d e r a t e l y P re t e r m an d L a t e P re t e r m In f a n t s Rakesh Sahni,
MD,
Richard A. Polin,
MD*
KEYWORDS Thermoregulation Respiratory morbidities Immunologic immaturity Glucose homeostasis Gastrointestinal immaturity Hepatic immaturity Brain dysmaturity KEY POINTS Preterm birth, even a few weeks before term, is associated with a high prevalence of clinical problems. Issues arise from functional immaturities of a wide variety of organ systems, acquired problems, and problems associated with inadequate monitoring and/or follow-up plans. Different organ systems mature at rates and trajectories that are specific to their functions, whereas maturation rates vary amongst infants. A better understanding of these principles can help guide optimal treatment strategies.
INTRODUCTION
In the United States approximately 1 in 8 infants is born prematurely (
MD,
Richard A. Polin,
MD*
KEYWORDS Thermoregulation Respiratory morbidities Immunologic immaturity Glucose homeostasis Gastrointestinal immaturity Hepatic immaturity Brain dysmaturity KEY POINTS Preterm birth, even a few weeks before term, is associated with a high prevalence of clinical problems. Issues arise from functional immaturities of a wide variety of organ systems, acquired problems, and problems associated with inadequate monitoring and/or follow-up plans. Different organ systems mature at rates and trajectories that are specific to their functions, whereas maturation rates vary amongst infants. A better understanding of these principles can help guide optimal treatment strategies.
INTRODUCTION
In the United States approximately 1 in 8 infants is born prematurely (
