Hyaline Membrane Syndrome

**Semantic type:** Congenital Abnormality|Disease or Syndrome

**Definition:** A serious disorder affecting newborns, particularly premature infants. It is caused by deficiency of surfactant, resulting in the formation of a membrane in the alveoli lining. This membrane contains fibrin and cellular debris and interferes with respiration. Infants with this disorder develop breathing problems immediately or in a few hours after delivery. It may lead to respiratory failure.