A newly recognized profile in neonatal lung disease with maternal diabetes.

A radiographic pattern associated with respiratory distress, distinct from hyaline membrane disease and transient tachypnea of the newborn, is described in eight infants of diabetic mothers. The radiographic findings demonstrate a regional distribution of reticulogranular densities accompanied by increased lung volumes. Clinical features were gestationally mature infants in moderate respiratory distress with tachypnea, hypercapnia, and hypoxemia requiring supplemental oxygen, with steady improvement and uneventful recovery within 2 weeks. There was no bacteriologic evidence of infection or radiographic evidence of delayed lung fluid absorption. The mothers had mild diabetes. These features characterize a newly recognized entity in diabetes-related idiopathic lung disease of the newborn. Possible causative factors are discussed.