We have previously reported a full course of AS to significantly increase FRC in preterm infants when compared to controls (Pediatr Res 1995; 37: 224).There is no objective documentation of racial responses to AS therapy in terms of FRC and respiratory compliance (Crs). To evaluate the racial response of preterm infants to a full course of AS, we measured FRC and Crs in 15 Caucasian (CAU) infants 25 to 34 weeks of gestation (mean BW=1736g; GA= 32.3 wks; 60% female) and in 12 African American (AA) infants (mean BW = 1272 g; GA= 29.4 wks; 33% female) who had recieved two 12 mg doses of betamethasone with the first dose given at least 24 hours before, but within 7 days of delivery. Each study group was compared to a control group matched for BW, GA, and race, who had recieved no AS (15 CAU: mean BW=1829g; GA = 31.9 wks; 26% female; 12 AA: mean BW = 1270g; GA = 29.4 wks; 33% female). FRC was measured with the nitrogen washout technique within 24 hours of age, and prior to surfactant therapy if required. A minimum of two measurements were performed with the neonate supine and quiet. Only consistent tracings initated at end expiration and without evidence of a leak were accepted. A study was acceptable if the measurements had a coefficient of variation < 10%. Crs was measured using the single breath occlusion techinque (SensorMedics 2600). Values are mean± SEM. Table

Table 1
Full size table

Both Caucasian and African American preterm infants demonstrate a significant increase in FRC after treatment with AS. This supports the effectiveness of AS therapy regardless of race.