Contents

SynopsisCodesReferences
Potentially life-threatening emergency
Persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn
Other Resources UpToDate PubMed
Potentially life-threatening emergency

Persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn

Other Resources UpToDate PubMed

Synopsis

Condition of term or postterm newborn where circulation fails to transition from fetal to normal perinatal circulation, maintaining a dangerously high pulmonary vascular resistance, in the absence of congenital heart disease. This reduces pulmonary blood flow in the neonate and creates a right-to-left shunting over a patent ductus arteriosus or patent foramen ovale. Characterized by respiratory distress, cyanosis, tachypnea, and hypoxemia. Symptoms may be mild or severe. Poor oxygenation can lead to organ dysfunction and higher risk of morbidity and mortality. Causes include meconium aspiration, pulmonary hypoplasia, respiratory distress syndrome, congenital diaphragmatic hernia, and infection possibly leading to sepsis or pneumonia (often group B streptococcal).

An association has been drawn to maternal use of antidepressants in the third trimester. However, studies linking maternal use of NSAIDs had mixed results.

Management includes cardiorespiratory intervention, treatment of associated conditions (such as antibiotics for neonatal infection), treatment of acidosis, and monitoring of oxygenation level. Treatments to maintain targeted oxygen saturation level include mechanical ventilation, supplemental oxygen, and assisted ventilation. Vasodilators may be prescribed to regulate vascular resistance. In extreme cases, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation may be required.

Codes

ICD10CM:
P29.30 – Pulmonary hypertension of newborn

SNOMEDCT:
233815004 – Persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn

References

Subscription Required

Last Updated:11/14/2021
Copyright © 2024 VisualDx®. All rights reserved.
Potentially life-threatening emergency
Persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn
Print  
A medical illustration showing key findings of Persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn : Cyanosis, Hypoxemia, Tachypnea, Increased work of breathing, Nasal flaring
Copyright © 2024 VisualDx®. All rights reserved.