What is respiratory distress syndrome in premature infants?

Neonatal respiratory distress syndrome generally refers to hyaline membrane disease. It occurs when alveoli collapse at the end of expiration, primarily due to a deficiency of pulmonary surfactant. The clinical manifestations include progressively worsening respiratory difficulty and hypoxemia; if not treated promptly, it may progress to respiratory failure. The incidence of neonatal respiratory distress syndrome is relatively low. Treatment for neonatal respiratory distress syndrome requires non-invasive ventilatory support under medical supervision.