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Hyaline Membrane Disease - Diagnosis, Treatment, Prognosis

A diagnosis of respiratory distress syndrome (or hyaline membrane disease or HMD) depends on the results of the following tests:

1. A chest x-ray is the first line of assessment. It exhibits the glass-like appearance of the membrane in a reticulo-granular pattern.
2. A physical examination of the baby to see the appearance, breathing and color of the baby.
3. EKG or an echocardiography recording the electrical signals of the heart shows abnormal betas and rhythms and helps in differential diagnosis.
4. Blood gas analysis which will indicate the amount of decreased O2, increased CO2 and acid in arterial blood.
5. Mother’s medical history especially with respect to diabetes and preterm labor.

Hyaline Membrane Disease In Infants

Hyaline membrane disease is the old name for the condition that is currently known as respiratory distress syndrome in infants (RDS). If your doctor diagnoses your baby’s disease as:

• neonatal respiratory distress syndrome
• infant respiratory distress syndrome

it means the baby is ailing with hyaline membrane disease. This disease generally affects babies born earlier than the 28 to 32 weeks of gestation or premature babies.

Hamman-Rich Syndrome: Facts, Symptoms, and Treatment

What is Hamman-Rich Syndrome

Neonatal Respiratory Distress Syndrome

Neonatal respiratory distress syndrome is a lung disorder occurring in newborns, primarily those born prematurely. They are not able to breathe properly, causing low blood/oxygen levels. This condition can be fatal.