Which condition is considered the most extreme case of prematurity?
Prematurity, or being born before 37 weeks of gestation, is a significant concern in neonatal care. Among the various degrees of prematurity, there exists a condition that is often regarded as the most extreme. This condition is known as extremely preterm birth, where infants are born before 28 weeks of gestation.
Extremely preterm birth is characterized by a high level of vulnerability and a multitude of health challenges. These infants often weigh less than 1000 grams and face a higher risk of severe complications, including respiratory distress syndrome, necrotizing enterocolitis, intraventricular hemorrhage, and retinopathy of prematurity. The survival rates for these infants are lower compared to those born at later gestational ages, and they may require prolonged hospital stays and extensive medical interventions.
In the following paragraphs, we will delve into the factors contributing to extremely preterm birth, the challenges faced by these infants, and the ongoing research aimed at improving their outcomes.
