Transient Tachypnea of Newborn (TTN):An Overview

Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN) is a self-limited disease common in infants throughout the world and is encountered by all neonatologist who care for newborn. Approximately 1% of infants have some form of respiratory distress that is not associated with infection. Respiratory distress includes both RDS (ie, hyaline membrane disease) and transient tachypnea of the newborn, of this 1%, approximately 33-50% has transient tachypnea of the newborn. Infants with transient tachypnea of the newborn present within the first few hours of life with tachypnea, increased oxygen requirement, and ABGs that do not reflect carbon dioxide retention. It is mostly seen in full or near term babies, risk is equal in both males and females, no racial predilection has reported. Babies born with TTN need special monitoring and treatment while in the hospital, but afterwards most make a full recovery, with no lasting effect on growth and development. It consists of a period of rapid breathing (higher than the normal range of 40-60 times per minute). It is likely due to retained lung fluid, and is most often seen in 35+ week gestation babies who are delivered by caesarian without labor. Usually, this condition resolves over 24-48 hours. The chest X-Ray shows hyperinflation of the lungs including prominent pulmonary vascular markings, flattening of the diaphragm, and fluid in the horizontal fissure of the right lung. Treatment is supportive and may include supplemental oxygen and antibiotics.