BONTLE LETHETSA

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BONTLE LETHETSA

Study section 3.5

3 Nov 2021, 19:13 Publicly Viewable
  • Briefly explain what cystic fibrosis is and how dornase alfa acts to solve the problem.

Cystic fibrosis is an inherited life-threatening disorder that damages the lungs and digestive system. It is associated with thickened and stickey mucus, which eventually blocks the airways. With regards to treatment, it is treated using dornase alfa as it breaks down the thick secretions in the airways, allowing air to flow better and preventing bacteria from building up.

  • Briefly explain what neonatal respiratory distress syndrome is, what the general treatment strategies involve and how cortisone and exogenous surfactants solve the problem.

Neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (NRDS) is a breathing disorder in new-borns caused by immature lungs.

Treatment for NRDS:

  1. Oxygen. Provide oxygen to improve oxygenation.
  2. Ventilator. Used to provide positive pressure.
  3. Exogenous surfactant. It eventually promotes gaseous exchange. It is regarded as a therapeutic option for new-borns, children, and adults to improve surfactant.
  4. Corticosteroids. It initiates baby’s surfactant production. It is administered to child/new-born and to the mother before birth.

  • What is the role of oxygen therapy in neonatal respiratory distress syndrome?  What do the dangers of oxygen toxicity involve?

The purpose of oxygen therapy is to increase oxygen levels in blood.

The dangers of oxygen toxicity involve retinal damage and blindness.

  • Briefly explain what neonatal apnoea is and how the methylxanthines solve the problem.  Which methylxanthine is used?

Neonatal apnoea is a pause in breathing that lasts approximately 20 seconds or longer for full-term infants. It is treated using a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant, methylxanthines.

Methylxanthines relaxes smooth muscles, including those of the bronchi, oesophagus, and gastroesophageal sphincter. They can reduce fatigue and improve concentration.