Fig. 1. The pathophysiology of apnea of prematurity.

Brainstem respiratory centers demonstrate both immature central and peripheral chemoreceptor responses and diminished neuromuscular control of upper airway patency. In addition to prolonged apneas leading to bradycardia and desaturation, the immature respiratory centers also result in shorter respiratory pauses and periodic breathing. Peripheral chemoreceptors mature more rapidly postnatally than central chemoreceptors, which can result in the cyclic pattern of periodic breathing and intermittent hypoxia.