Heart rate control in infants at high risk for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)

The aim of this study was to examine whether and how newborns suffering from bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) differ from their healthy peers with respect to heart rate control. Infants suffering from BPD are more at risk of dying from SIDS. Linear as well as non-linear analysis was performed on sleep stage classified heart rate (IHR) data. A marker of the autonomic balance the LF/HF ratio of the IHR power spectrum was calculated. To characterize non-linear properties the correlation dimension and the Largest Lyapunov Exponent were determined. The results of the analysis may support the role of autonomic dysfunction in the SIDS etiology.