<unk> , gasping<unk>  or<unk>  breathing is a distinct abnormal pattern of breathing and brainstem reflex characterized by gasping, labored breathing, accompanied by strange vocalizations and myoclonus. Possible causes include cerebral ischemia, extreme hypoxia (inadequate oxygen supply to tissue), or even anoxia (total depletion of oxygen).<unk>  breathing is an extremely serious medical sign requiring immediate medical attention, as the condition generally progresses to complete apnea and heralds death. The duration of<unk>  can be as brief as two breaths or last up to several hours. The term is sometimes (inaccurately) used to refer to labored, gasping breathing patterns accompanying organ failure (e.g. liver failure and kidney failure), SIRS, septic shock, and metabolic acidosis (see Kussmaul breathing, or in general any labored breathing, including Biot's<unk> s and ataxic<unk> s). Correct usage would restrict the term to the last breaths before death.<unk> s are also commonly seen in cases of cardiogenic shock or cardiac arrest, where<unk> s may persist for several minutes after cessation of heartbeat. The presence of<unk> s in these cases indicates a more favorable prognosis than in cases of cardiac arrest without<unk> s. In an unresponsive, pulseless patient in cardiac arrest,<unk>  gasps are not effective breaths.<unk>  occurs in 40% of cardiac arrests experienced outside a hospital environment.
Agonal respiration
Expiratory apnea
Ataxic respiration
Pursed-lip breathing
Hypoxic ventilatory response
Kussmaul breathing
Periodic breathing
Stuttering