Apnea of prematurity

Apnea of prematurity (AOP) is a condition in which babies younger than 37 weeks of gestational age at birth, suddenly stop breathing for a period of more than 20 seconds. AOP is also considered if there is a cessation of breathing lasting less than 20 seconds, if it is accompanied by bradycardia (abnormally slow heart rate) or cyanosis (oxygen desaturation). AOP usually improves with time and resolves, but some babies may have recurrent episodes, requiring management such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP).