What defines apneustic breathing?

Apneustic breathing is characterized by prolonged gasping inspirations that are followed by short, ineffective expirations. This pattern results in a distinctive breathing rhythm where there is an extended phase of inhalation, often described as a "fish out of water" type of breathing. This pattern often arises from damage to the pontine region of the brain, which plays a crucial role in regulating normal breath patterns. The long inspiration followed by a brief expiration leads to inefficiencies in gas exchange, as the breaths are not completed effectively, which is indicative of the underlying neurological impairment.

Other patterns of breathing listed, such as shallow rapid breaths or irregular rhythms with apneic periods, do not accurately represent the characteristics of apneustic breathing, which is specifically noted for its prolonged inhalation phase.