Which breathing pattern is described as cyclic waxing and waning?

• A. Cheyne-Stokes Respirations
• B. Ataxic (Biot) Respirations
• C. Decorticate Posturing
• D. Raccoon Eyes

Answer: (A)

Cheyne-Stokes respirations are the pattern described as cyclic waxing and waning. Here, the breaths gradually increase in depth and rate, then taper off to a period of apnea, and the cycle repeats. This classic crescendo–decrescendo with intermittent apnea reflects unstable control of breathing, often due to delayed CO2 feedback from impaired cerebral perfusion or brain injury. It’s commonly seen with advanced heart failure or intracranial disease.

In contrast, irregular, unpredictable breathing with varying depths and no consistent rhythm points to Ataxic (Biot) respirations, which don’t show the orderly waxing and waning pattern. Decorticate posturing is a motor abnormality from severe brain injury, not a breathing rhythm, and Raccoon eyes are facial bruising signs after trauma, not breathing patterns.