Clinical Characteristics, Etiology, and Outcomes of Neonatal Respiratory Distress at Al-Zawiya Medical Center, Libya

Abstract

Neonatal respiratory distress (NRD) is one of the most common neonatal emergencies and a leading cause of admission to neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) worldwide. It contributes substantially to neonatal morbidity and mortality, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Early recognition and timely management are essential for improving neonatal outcomes. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence, etiological spectrum, clinical characteristics, and outcomes of neonatal respiratory distress among newborns admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Al-Zawiya Teaching Hospital, Libya. A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted in the NICU of Al-Zawiya Teaching Hospital, Libya. Medical records of 200 neonates diagnosed with respiratory distress and admitted between January and December 2021 were reviewed. Data collected included demographic characteristics, gestational age, birth weight, mode of delivery, maternal history, clinical diagnosis, and treatment outcomes. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27. Categorical variables were summarized as frequencies and percentages. During the study period, 5,300 live births and 2,600 NICU admissions were recorded. A total of 200 neonates were diagnosed with respiratory distress, corresponding to a prevalence of 3.77% among live births and 7.69% among NICU admissions. Male neonates accounted for 112 (56.0%) cases, while female neonates accounted for 88 (44.0%). Term neonates constituted 108 (54.0%) of the study population. The most common etiologies of respiratory distress were transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN) in 74 (37.0%) neonates, respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in 66 (33.0%), neonatal sepsis in 28 (14.0%), and meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) in 14 (7.0%). The overall mortality rate was 4.5% (9/200), whereas 191 (95.5%) neonates were discharged in stable condition. Neonatal respiratory distress remains a major cause of NICU admission at Al-Zawiya Teaching Hospital. Transient tachypnea of the newborn and respiratory distress syndrome were the predominant etiologies. Strengthening early diagnosis, improving perinatal care, and optimizing neonatal intensive care interventions are essential to reduce neonatal morbidity and mortality.