Apnoeic episodes are characterized by an absence of respirations for more than 20 seconds or for any duration , in the presence of bradycardia or cyanosis Periods of apnoea are generally due to be incompletely developed respiratory center, paicularly when they are seen in premature infant. Although seizures, hypoglycemia, and pulmonary disease accompanied by hypoxia can lead to apnea, these causes are less likely in the infant described, given that no unusual movements occur during the apneic spells, the blood sugar level is more than 40 mg/dL, and the child appears well between episodes.