Physiologic underpinnings for clinical problems in moderately preterm and late preterm infants

Abstract

This article highlights some of the important developmental characteristics that underpin common problems seen in moderate and late preterm infants. Preterm birth is associated with an increased prevalence of clinical problems caused by functional immaturities in a wide variety of organ systems, acquired problems, and problems associated with inadequate monitoring and/or follow-up plans. There are variations in the degree of maturation among infants of similar gestational ages because the developmental process is nonlinear. Therefore, different organ systems mature at rates and trajectories that are specific to their functions. A better understanding of these principles can help guide optimal treatment strategies.

Keywords: Brain dysmaturity; Gastrointestinal immaturity; Glucose homeostasis; Hepatic immaturity; Immunologic immaturity; Respiratory morbidities; Thermoregulation.