Secondary drowning in the Cape Peninsula.

Secondary drowning is a respiratory distress syndrome which develops after a latent period following apparently successful resuscitation from near-drowning. Eighteen cases of near-drowning have been reviewed and one case history is presented in detail to illustrate the importance of anticipating the development of this syndrome. Successful management of these patients involves ventilatory support and careful monitoring of the neurological and cardiovascular status. Because many doctors are unaware of the syndrome and because it has a good prognosis if recognized and treated early, a review of the clinical features and treatment is warranted.