In a lady at 32 weeks pregnancy is given an injection of dexamethasone to prevent which of the following in the newborn ?
**Core Concept**
Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid that is administered to pregnant women at risk of preterm birth to accelerate fetal lung maturation and reduce the incidence of respiratory complications in the newborn.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The administration of dexamethasone in pregnancy induces the production of surfactant in the fetal lungs, which is essential for reducing the surface tension within the alveoli and facilitating lung expansion during breathing. This surfactant production is crucial in preventing respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in the newborn. RDS is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in preterm infants, characterized by difficulty in breathing, hypoxemia, and the need for respiratory support.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option B:** Neonatal convulsions are not directly prevented by dexamethasone administration. Corticosteroids may have a neuroprotective effect, but this is not a primary indication for their use in pregnancy.
**Option C:** Neonatal jaundice is not a condition that is directly prevented by dexamethasone. Corticosteroids may affect bilirubin metabolism, but this is not a primary indication for their use in pregnancy.
**Option D:** Cerebral palsy is a condition that is not directly prevented by dexamethasone administration. Corticosteroids may have a neuroprotective effect, but this is not a primary indication for their use in pregnancy.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Dexamethasone should be administered in a dose of 6-12 mg every 12 hours for a total of 2-3 doses to pregnant women at risk of preterm birth to accelerate fetal lung maturation and reduce the incidence of respiratory distress syndrome in the newborn.
✓ Correct Answer: A. Respiratory Distress Syndrome