Blue baby syndrome
Blue baby syndrome (pronunciation: /bluː ˈbeɪbi ˈsɪndroʊm/), also known as Infant methemoglobinemia or Cyanotic heart disease, is a condition that affects infants, causing a blue or purple tint to the skin, lips, and nail beds. This discoloration is due to a lack of oxygen in the blood, a condition known as Cyanosis.
Etymology
The term "Blue baby syndrome" is derived from the noticeable blue or purple discoloration (cyanosis) that the condition causes. The term "cyanotic" is derived from the Greek word "kyanos", meaning "dark blue".
Causes
Blue baby syndrome can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Congenital heart defects: Certain heart defects present at birth can result in blue baby syndrome. These include conditions such as Tetralogy of Fallot and Transposition of the great arteries.
- Methemoglobinemia: This is a condition in which an abnormal amount of methemoglobin — a type of hemoglobin — is produced. Hemoglobin is responsible for carrying oxygen in the blood.
- Nitrate poisoning: High levels of nitrates in drinking water can also cause blue baby syndrome. This is more common in rural areas where well water is used.
Symptoms
Symptoms of blue baby syndrome include:
- Blue or purple tint to the skin, lips, and nail beds
- Difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Poor weight gain and growth
Treatment
Treatment for blue baby syndrome depends on the underlying cause. It may include:
- Surgery: For cases caused by congenital heart defects, surgery may be necessary to correct the defect.
- Medication: Certain medications can be used to treat methemoglobinemia.
- Oxygen therapy: This can help increase the amount of oxygen in the blood.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Blue baby syndrome
- Wikipedia's article - Blue baby syndrome
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