Sudden unexpected death in infancy: biological mechanisms

Paediatr Respir Rev. 2014 Dec;15(4):287-92. doi: 10.1016/j.prrv.2014.09.003. Epub 2014 Sep 19.

Abstract

Sudden unexpected death in infancy (SUDI) covers both explained and unexplained deaths. Unexplained cases or SIDS are likely to have multiple neural mechanisms contributing to the final event. The evidence ranges from subtle physiological signs related to autonomic control, to findings at autopsy of altered neurotransmitter systems, including the serotonergic system, a network that has an extensive homeostatic role in cardio-respiratory and thermoregulatory control. Processes may be altered by the vulnerability of the infant due to age, poor motor ability, or a genetic predisposition. The fatal event may occur in response to an environmental stress. A single final physiological route to death seems unlikely. An understanding of the reasons for explained SUDI also reminds us that a thorough investigation is required after each death occurs.

Keywords: Asphyxia; Bed sharing; Infant; SIDS; Sleep position.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Autopsy
  • Cause of Death
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Risk Factors
  • Sudden Infant Death / etiology*
  • Sudden Infant Death / pathology*