Evaluation and management of infantile apnea.

Knowledge regarding the etiology and optimal management of prolonged apnea and its relationship to SIDS is still limited. The majority of infants with prolonged apnea do not die of SIDS, although the risk of SIDS in this group is greater than in the general population. Many infants with prolonged apnea who are perceived by parents and physicians as having had a "life-threatening" event may be at risk for another. Appropriate assessment following this event includes a careful history and physical examination to determine cause and severity. Etiologies to be considered include infections, metabolic aberrations, seizure problems, cardiac arrhythmias or congenital heart disease, anatomic airway abnormalities, gastroesophageal reflux and impaired regulation of breathing. If a specific cause has been identified for the infant's apnea, appropriate treatment often will lead to resolution of the apnea problem. If a specific etiology has not been identified or if the risk of "life-threatening" prolonged apnea seems to persist, electronic cardiorespiratory monitoring may be considered. Appropriate treatment for asymptomatic infants who are at increased statistical risk of SIDS is controversial. Asymptomatic infants may be candidates for home monitoring, but as yet, there are no reliable tests to predict which infants are at risk for prolonged apnea. Monitoring at home must be prescribed by the physician and should be continued until judged no longer appropriate by the attending physician. Skilled caregivers are crucial to the continuous observation and management of these patients in the hospital and at home. Therefore parents should be taught monitor use and also CPR.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)