<prompt> Absence of pulmonary surfactant in premature infant leads toPulmonary edemaCollapse of alveoliElastic recoil of lungsAll of the above  <response>: RDS occurs when there is not enough surfactant in the lungs. ... When there is not enough surfactant, the tiny alveoli collapse with each breath. As the alveoli collapse, damaged cells collect in the airways. They fuher affect breathing. Reference: GHAI Essential pediatrics, 8th edition 