Mild Subcostal Retractions in Pediatrics — Case | Pediatric Respiratory | SMLE Q#4354

SMLE Question #4354

Pediatrics Pediatric Respiratory

Objective: OBJ-273

Last updated: February 2026
A full-term male newborn is evaluated 2 hours after birth for rapid breathing. He was delivered by elective cesarean section at 39 weeks’ gestation without labor. Pregnancy was uncomplicated. He is alert with mild subcostal retractions and nasal flaring, without grunting or cyanosis. Chest auscultation reveals clear breath sounds bilaterally. Chest X-ray shows prominent perihilar vascular markings and fluid in the interlobar fissures, without consolidation or air bronchograms. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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