Apparent life-threatening event: a review.
An "apparent life-threatening event" (ALTE) refers to an episode that is of concern to the caregiver and is associated with a combination of apnea, color change, change in tone, choking, or gagging. Although the natural history of ALTE is most often benign, there is a risk for subsequent morbidity and mortality. The provider must stabilize the infant as needed, obtain key history, identify and address any underlying causes, educate the caregivers, and provide a safe disposition. This article summarizes the body of literature concerning ALTE, with specific attention to the diagnosis and management of these cases.
Dewolfe
Craig C
CC
Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Hospitalist Division, Children's National Medical Center, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, 111 Michigan Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20010, USA.
D000402:Airway Obstruction / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D001049:Apnea / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D003490:Cyanosis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005683:Gagging; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008487:Medical History Taking; D008991:Monitoring, Physiologic; D010808:Physical Examination; D013398:Sudden Infant Death; D013577:Syndrome