![]() Analysis of surfactant from amniotic fluid allows assessment of fetal lung maturity (FLM) in the human fetus and exogenous surfactant replacement therapy is part of the standard care in premature human infants. ![]() Surfactant dysfunction (qualitative changes in surfactant) has been implicated in the pathophysiology of acute respiratory distress syndrome and asthma. Surfactant deficiency (quantitative deficit of surfactant) in premature animals causes neonatal respiratory distress syndrome. Lung surfactant alterations have been described in a number of respiratory diseases. Surfactant-specific proteins are part of the innate immune defense mechanisms of the lung. In addition, surfactant contributes to smaller airway patency and improves mucociliary clearance. Surfactant lowers alveolar surface tension and is crucial for the prevention of alveolar collapse. Lung surfactant is produced by type II alveolar cells as a mixture of phospholipids, surfactant proteins, and neutral lipids.
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