What condition is primarily treated with surfactants?

Surfactants are primarily used to treat Infant Respiratory Distress Syndrome (IRDS), which is a condition commonly seen in premature infants whose lungs are not fully developed. The purpose of surfactants is to reduce surface tension in the alveoli, the tiny air sacs in the lungs, thereby improving lung compliance and enhancing gas exchange. In premature infants, a deficiency in surfactant leads to collapsed alveoli (atelectasis), making breathing difficult and leading to the characteristic symptoms of IRDS.

By administering exogenous surfactants, clinicians can help stabilize the alveoli, allowing them to remain open and improving oxygenation. This intervention is critical as it can significantly reduce mortality and morbidity in affected infants. In contrast, while other options listed involve respiratory conditions, they are not primarily treated with surfactants. For example, asthma is generally managed with bronchodilators and anti-inflammatory medications, cystic fibrosis treatment includes mucolytics and antibiotics, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is primarily treated with bronchodilators and corticosteroids.