[The idiopathic respiratory distress syndrome from the obstetrical point of view].

Frequency of idiopathic respiratory distress syndrome (IRDS) of low birth weight children was examined over 15 years (1960 to 1975) in the Frauenklinik of the Ernst-Moritz-Arndt-University of Greifswald. Possible pathogenetic risk factors were proofed. The validity of the Apgar-score and blood gas analyses for the development of IRDS was investigated. Finally, the coincidence between mode of delivery, early rupture of membrane and imminent intrauterine infection in relation to the frequency of IRDS was shown.