The neutrophil respiratory burst in newborns

Neutrophil respiratory burst is like a double-edged sword.On one hand, newborns rely mainly on neutrophil against infection.On the other hand, newborns are succeptible to be damaged by reactive oxygen species.Studies have already suggested that reactive oxygen species have relationship with neonatal diseases, such as sepsis, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, but it still remains controversial.This paper provides an overview of the measurement of neutrophil respiratory burst, and the relationship of neutrophil respiratory burst with neonatal sepsis, as well as with bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Key words: Newborn; Neutrophil; Respiratory burst; Bronchopulmonary dysplasia