A Deficiency of Surfactants in the Neonate

Question

A deficiency of surfactants in the neonate
A) makes it difficult to expand the lungs.
B) decreases alveolar surface tension.
C) causes epiglottal swelling and laryngospasm.
D) causes upper airway irritation.

Accepted Answer

Surfactants are responsible for decreasing surface tension in the alveoli, allowing for easier expansion of the lungs. A deficiency of surfactants in the neonate would make it difficult to expand the lungs.