A preterm neonate born at 32 weeks' gestation is found to have bradycardia and apnea episodes. The infant is treated with caffeine. What is the most likely diagnosis? A) Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) B) Neonatal hypoglycemia C) Apnea of prematurity D) Meconium aspiration syndrome E) Neonatal sepsis Correct Answer: C) Apnea of prematurity Explanation: Apnea of prematurity is common in preterm infants, particularly those born before 32 weeks' gestation. It is characterized by episodes of cessation of breathing lasting more than 20 seconds, often accompanied by bradycardia and cyanosis. Treatment with caffeine is commonly used to stimulate breathing. RDS (A) presents with respiratory distress but is not specifically associated with apnea episodes. Neonatal hypoglycemia (B) presents with poor feeding, irritability, and tremors, but not with apnea and bradycardia. Meconium aspiration syndrome (D) presents with respiratory distress and cyanosis but not apnea. Neonatal sepsis (E) typically presents with fever, poor feeding, and generalized signs of infection, but apnea is less common. Key Tips for PLAB 1: ✅ Preterm, apnea, bradycardia, treated with caffeine = Apnea of prematurity ✅ Management = Caffeine, respiratory support (e.g., CPAP or nasal cannula), and monitoring
