Comparative Study on the Clinical Characteristics of Transient Tachypnea of Newborns according to the Need for Invasive Mechanical Ventilation

Abstract

Purpose: Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN) is the most prevalent respiratory disease worldwide. Many neonates with TTN generally demonstrate spontaneous improvement. However, only few patients present with severe complications. This study aimed to investigate the differences in clinical features to identify neonates at risk for further complications.Methods: Between January 2015 and December 2020, 267 neonates who developed dyspnea within 6 h of birth were delivered at a gestational age of at least 37 weeks. The experimental group (group E) included 44 neonates who required invasive mechanical ventilation, whereas the control group (group C) included 223 neonates who required only observation or non-invasive respiratory support. We analyzed the differences in clinical and perinatal factors between the two groups.Results: Gestational age and pH on arterial blood gas analysis at admission were significantly lower in group E (p<0.05). Clinical findings, such as moaning, tachypnea (>90 breaths/min), and pneumothorax, were more frequently observed in group E (p<0.05).Conclusion: Moaning, tachypnea (>90 breaths/min), and need for respiratory assistance (fraction of inspired oxygen concentration ≥0.25) are predictive factors for increased risk of progression to a more severe disease course in neonates with TTN. Additional studies are needed to identify definitive factors that can differentiate TTN that improves spontaneously from TTN that requires intensive care.