Wilson-Mikity Syndrome in a Full-Term Male Twin

Abstract

In 1960 Wilson and Mikity¹ reported a syndrome of chronic respiratory distress in premature infants. Signs of hyperpnea, intercostal retractions, and cyanosis develop insidiously during the first several weeks of life. Episodes of apnea and rales on auscultation can occur. Respiratory distress persists for the first month or two and slowly subsides in the infants who survive. The chest radiographs show progressive distinctive changes.² During the acute phase, the radiographs show a diffuse streaky infiltrate, multiple small cyst-like foci, and often hyperaeration. The intermediate stage is characterized by coarse streaks radiating from the hilus, primarily to the upper lobes, with basilar clearing.