SIDS

Risk factors for SIDS:

• between 1-12 months of age
• low socioeconomic status
• multiple gestation pregnancy
• male
• prone sleeping
• exposure to second-hand smoke

Epidemiology:

• 3rd leading cause of death in infants
• most common cause of death in children < 1 yr
• can occur anytime before age 2
  • rare < 1 month or > 1 yr.
  • peak 2-4 months of age
  • no association between Apparent Life Threatening Events (ALTE) and SIDS
  • In the ED:
    1. rarely benefit to CPR or resuscitation (baby is already dead)
    2. primary role is to support the family

• blood and urine samples but rarely helpful

• most SIDS due to genetic variants in ion-channels/proteins
• autopsy usually done
• psychological considerations:
  • ER physician should be clear, pediatrician backup may be helpful
  • parents feel intense guilt and burden
    1. many have increased rates of infertility, miscarriage, and divorce post SIDS
  • parental support is key
  • for more see the AAP guideline: “death of a child in the ED: