[Treatment of apnea in prematurity].

Continuous monitoring of premature infants with apnea is mandatory in order to define the pathophysiology and the type of apnea, and to assess the efficacy and tolerance of the treatment. Etiological treatment must be first considered before deciding on a symptomatic treatment adapted to the type of apnea. In our practice, methylxanthines are the first line treatment considering their efficiency on the 'central' component of apnea of prematurity. In case of treatment failure, doxapram or continuous positive pressure can be associated to methylxanthines, especially when obstructive apnea or hypoventilation are predominant. The first attempt to stop the treatment is undertaken 4 to 5 days after complete resolution of apnea, starting with the last treatment used, the monitoring being maintained 4 to 5 days in order to detect eventual new apnea.