What is another term for infant respiratory distress syndrome?

Infant respiratory distress syndrome is also known as hyaline membrane disease. This term is used because, in this condition, there is often the formation of a hyaline-like membrane in the alveoli of the lungs, which impairs gas exchange and leads to respiratory distress. Hyaline membrane disease is most commonly observed in premature infants who have not yet developed adequate surfactant in their lungs. Surfactant is essential for reducing surface tension in the alveoli and preventing their collapse. When surfactant levels are low, the lungs cannot expand properly, leading to difficulties in breathing, cyanosis, and the need for respiratory support.

The other terms in the list refer to different conditions or scenarios. Acute respiratory distress syndrome generally pertains to adults and older children due to various causes, such as trauma or pneumonia, and is not specific to infants. Chronic lung disease is a term that is often used to describe long-term respiratory problems, typically seen in premature babies after prolonged ventilator use. Bronchopulmonary dysplasia specifically refers to lung disease resulting from mechanical ventilation and oxygen therapy in premature infants, which is distinct from the initial acute phase represented by hyaline membrane disease.