how maternal diabetes cause RDS in preterm
Maternal diabetes can cause respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in preterm infants through several mechanisms. One key factor is that maternal diabetes increases the risk of preterm birth, which can result in underdeveloped lungs in the newborn. Additionally, maternal diabetes can also lead to increased levels of glucose in the amniotic fluid, which can inhibit the production of surfactant – a substance that helps the lungs expand and function properly.
Furthermore, infants born to mothers with diabetes may also have higher levels of insulin in their blood at birth, which can interfere with surfactant production and increase the risk of RDS. In some cases, infants born to mothers with diabetes may also have lower levels of surfactant proteins, which can further exacerbate the risk of developing RDS.
Overall, the combination of preterm birth, high levels of glucose in the amniotic fluid, elevated insulin levels, and decreased surfactant production can all contribute to the development of RDS in preterm infants born to mothers with diabetes.