Term and preterm umbilical artery levels of β-endorphin and ACTH and their significance in the development of respiratory distress syndrome

Summary

Umbilical artery concentrations of adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH), β-endorphin and pH values were measured in term and preterm babies. There was a strong correlation between acidosis and elevated ACTH and β-endorphin levels. Those preterm infants who developed severe respiratory distress syndrome had the highest ACTH and β-endorphin values and the lowest pH. Fetal antepartum stress was found to be associated with severe rather than mild respiratory distress syndrome and may in fact cause exacerbation.