POLYGRAPHIC SLEEP RECORDINGS OF INFANTS D ESTINED TO DIE - COMPARISONOF SUDDEN INFANT DEATH WITH OTHER CAUSES OF DEATH

Background: Physiologic parameters of infants, who were destined to di e, were compared with control infants, matched for gestational age, se x, birth weight and age at sleep study. Methods: From 1989 to 1994 pol ygraphic recordings were performed in 4268 infants. In this population 7 cases of sudden infant death (SID) and 13 deaths from other causes (Non SID) occurred. The polygraphic recordings included thoracic and a bdominal breathing movements, nasal airflow tcpO(2), tcpCO(2), EEG, EO G and EGG. Results: Concerning all forms of apneas greater than or equ al to 3 seconds duration a higher frequency and maximal duration was f ound in the SID group. The number of infants with obstructive apneas a nd the number of obstructive apneas per infant were higher in future S LD victims, as was the frequency, mean and maximal duration of central apneas of 3 to 10 seconds. The recordings of Non-SID-infants were not different from their controls. Conclusion: As a group, future SID vic tims showed apnea characteristics different from control infants. Toge ther with epidemiologic risk factors these polygraphic factors contrib ute to an identification of infants at risk for SID.