Management of apnoea and bradycardia in the newborn

Apnoea and associated bradycardia are common in preterm newborn infants. Apnoea of prematurity is a developmental disorder, which requires careful evaluation to exclude other pathological causes contributing to the apnoeas. The long-term effects of apnoea and bradycardia are unclear, but may be associated with long-term neurodevelopmental problems. Severe apnoeas may need resuscitation, mechanical ventilation or CPAP. Caffeine is currently the drug of choice for treatment of apnoea of prematurity. The effects of may other interventions, including stimulation, Kangaroo care, RBC transfusion, etc need further evaluation. Further research into the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying apnoeas, neurodevelopmental effects and long-term follow up of affected infants will help in optimizing management strategies for apnoea of prematurity.