Apnea of Prematurity

An immature central respiratory drive, inability to maintain airway patency, and underdeveloped respiratory muscles cause hypoventilation resulting in apneic and cyanotic spells.

Types a. Central – Reduced sensitivity to hypercarbia of the central respiratory center results in a lack of respiratory effort. b. Obstructive – A respiratory effort exists, as evidenced by chest wall movement, but the inability to maintain upper airway (i.e., larynx and pharynx) patency results in obstruction of airflow. c. Mixed – The most common type of apnea of prematurity, a combination of central and obstructive apnea.