Endocrine factors in the neonatal adaptation.

In this review an attempt has been made to summarize our current knowledge on the involvement of various endocrine systems in the adaptation of the neonate to extrauterine life. Clinical and experimental evidence has been provided to indicate the role of catecholamines, glucocorticoids, prostaglandins, vasopressin, endorphins and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in the cardiovascular and respiratory adaptation. Furthermore, the contribution of prolactin, vasopressin and the renin-angiotensin system to the redistribution of the body fluid compartments after birth and to the regulation of neonatal salt and water metabolism has been demonstrated. It has been concluded that the endocrine reactions induced by birth process and perinatal pathological events are important regulators of successful transition.