What is neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (NRDS)?

Neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (NRDS) primarily results from insufficient surfactant production due to immature lung development in premature infants. Surfactant is produced by type II alveolar cells, also known as pneumocyte type II cells, which play a crucial role in reducing surface tension within the alveoli, thus preventing their collapse during exhalation. In preterm infants, the underdevelopment of these cells means there is inadequate surfactant to maintain alveolar stability, leading to atelectasis, which is the collapse of the alveoli. This condition manifests as difficulty breathing, reduced oxygenation, and overall respiratory distress shortly after birth.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the primary characteristics of NRDS. While excess fluid in the lungs can contribute to respiratory distress, it is not the defining characteristic of NRDS. Chronic lung disease in adults pertains to a different set of conditions and is unrelated to the neonatal period. Lastly, NRDS is not classified as a genetic disorder; rather, it is predominantly associated with prematurity and the associated developmental factors.