What is the primary characteristic of apnea of prematurity?

The primary characteristic of apnea of prematurity is idiopathic recurrent apnea. This condition commonly occurs in premature infants, who may experience episodes where breathing temporarily stops, typically lasting for 20 seconds or longer, or shorter periods accompanied by bradycardia.

Apnea of prematurity is largely due to the underdevelopment of the brain's respiratory centers, particularly in those born significantly before their due date. As these infants mature, the frequency and severity of apnea episodes tend to decrease, which reflects the maturation of their central nervous system. Describing the apnea as idiopathic emphasizes that the episodes occur without an identifiable external cause and are a known aspect of premature birth, setting it apart from other types of apnea that may be due to physical blockages, central nervous system issues, or anatomical abnormalities.

While other types of apnea are characterized by specific causes, such as obstructive sleep apnea related to physical blockage of the airways or central apnea linked to dysfunction in the brain signaling for breathing, idiopathic recurrent apnea stands out as a distinct and prevalent condition in vulnerable preterm infants.