Wiegendood in een box

To explain the increase in the number of deaths due to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) that occurred while the infant was in a playpen or on a playpen mat placed outside of the pen. 13 deaths were reported in the period 1 September 1996-31 August 2004, in contrast to 0 deaths in the years 1984/’96.

Design

Descriptive.

Method

Data on the 13 infants that were reported to the National Study Group on SIDS were analysed and the presence of risk factors for SIDS was assessed.

Results

Of the 13 infants, 9 were male and 4 were female. 12 were aged less than 12 months and 1 was aged 13 months. Known risk factors for SIDS were often present and frequently occurred in combinations: male sex (n = 9), higher birth order (n = 9), age 1-8 months (n = 12), parental smoking (n = 6), primary prone sleeping position (n = 4), secundary prone (n = 6, often the first time), face down (n = 9), no adult present (n = 13).

Conclusion

There was no clear explanation for the observed increase in SIDS that occurred in a playpen or on a playpen mat placed outside of the pen.

Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd 2005;149:1279-82