Abstract

The neonatal period is characterized by marked physiological vulnerability and accounts for a substantial proportion of childhood morbidity and mortality, particularly during the first days of life. Cardiopulmonary transition involves complex physiological changes, including lung aeration, clearance of fetal lung fluid, progressive reduction in pulmonary vascular resistance, increased pulmonary blood flow, and functional closure of the fetal shunts. Failure or delay in these processes may result in a spectrum of respiratory, cardiovascular, and systemic disorders. This narrative review summarizes the physiological mechanisms underlying neonatal cardiopulmonary transition. It discusses the main neonatal diseases associated with impaired transition, including transient tachypnea of the newborn, respiratory distress syndrome, meconium aspiration syndrome, and persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn. The article discusses their pathophysiological mechanisms, clinical manifestations, radiographic findings, and current management strategies, emphasizing early recognition, appropriate respiratory and hemodynamic support, and evidence-based care.

Keywords

newborn, neonatal diseases, cardiopulmonary transition, respiratory distress, respiratory failure