In 25 infants with respiratory distress syndrome, the 12 infants whose initial bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) sample (within first hour of life) was positive for IL-1β were associated with chorioamnionitis (clinical and histologic) and were smaller in size, more immature and required a longer time on mechanical ventilation and supplemental oxygen therapy than the 13 infants whose initial BAL sample was negative for IL-1β [122]. The gene discussed is IL1B; the disease is chorioamnionitis.