Bradycardia preceding apneic attacks in low-birthweight infants. The relationship and management.

Two premature infants had frequent episodes of prolonged apnea. The apneic spells were not due to the more commonly known causes of apnea in infancy, but were consistently preceded by severe bradycardia. Atropine or ephedrine produced favorable therapeutic results. Since severe bradycardia may be a cause of sudden death in infants, its recognition and treatment is important in the management of apneic infants.