Transient Tachypnea Of Newborn (TTN)

A self-limited respiratory syndrome known as Transient Tachypnoea of the Newborn (TTN) occurs in newborns soon after birth and is characterised by fast breathing as a result of delayed clearance of foetal lung fluid. Fluid that is routinely absorbed during labour and delivery fills the lungs during foetal life. Sometimes this fluid clearance is inadequate, resulting in temporary respiratory distress, particularly after a caesarean delivery without labour, premature birth, or maternal diabetes.

Clinically, newborns with TTN exhibit nasal flaring, minor chest retractions, tachypnea (respiratory rate >60 breaths per minute), and occasionally grunting within the first few hours of life. Oxygenation is typically maintained or very slightly impaired in spite of these symptoms. Chest X-rays frequently reveal hyperinflated lungs, noticeable pulmonary vascular lines, and fluid in interlobar fissures.
Most of the time, management is advantageous. The majority of infants merely need to be watched, have their body temperature and blood sugar levels maintained, and receive additional oxygen if necessary. Mechanical ventilation is rarely required. As the extra lung fluid is reabsorbed, symptoms usually go away in 24 to 72 hours.

Newborns with transient tachypnea typically have a very favourable prognosis and no long-term respiratory problems. Appropriate care depends on early differentiation from more dangerous illnesses like pneumonia or respiratory distress syndrome.