Meaning of RESPIRATORY DISTRESS SYNDROME

WordNet Dictionary
	Definition:		[n]  an acute lung disease of the newborn (especially the premature newborn); lungs cannot expand because of a wetting agent is lacking; characterized by rapid shallow breathing and cyanosis and the formation of a glassy hyaline membrane over the alveoli
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	Synonyms:		hyaline membrane disease, respiratory distress syndrome of the newborn
	See Also:		respiratory disease, respiratory disorder
Biology Dictionary
	Definition:		Respiratory distress syndrome is observed within 1 to 6 hours of birth and characterized by rapid grunting respiration, cyanosis, and retraction of the intercostal muscles upon the infant taking a breath. It can be either of pulmonary or extrapulmonary causes. The most common cause is hyaline membrane disease which occurs in preterm infants. Other causes are: inhalation of clear fluid or meconium, pneumothorax, and pneumonia.