surfactant dysfunction

Surfactant dysfunction occurs when the lungs' natural substance, called surfactant, does not work properly. Surfactant helps keep the small air sacs in the lungs (alveoli) open, making breathing easier by reducing surface tension. When surfactant is deficient or dysfunctional, the alveoli tend to collapse or stick together, causing difficulties in expanding the lungs and impairing oxygen exchange. This condition can be caused by genetic factors, lung injuries, or infections. Surfactant dysfunction often leads to breathing problems, especially in premature infants and sometimes in adults with lung diseases, requiring medical management to improve lung function.