Which type of breathing pattern is characterized by periods of apnea followed by deep, gasping breaths?

The correct breathing pattern characterized by periods of apnea followed by deep, gasping breaths is indeed Biot's respiration. This specific type of breathing is often observed in patients with neurological impairment or increased intracranial pressure. The key feature of Biot's respiration is that it consists of irregular, rapid, and deep breaths interspersed with periods of apnea. This irregularity distinguishes it from other breathing patterns, as the breaths are not consistent in rate or depth and can vary significantly.

When considering the other patterns, Kussmaul's respiration involves deep, labored breaths often associated with metabolic acidosis, especially seen in diabetic ketoacidosis. Cheyne-Stokes respiration presents as a cyclical pattern of gradual increases and decreases in breathing depth, with periods of apnea, commonly associated with heart failure or brain injuries. Ataxic breathing is characterized by unpredictable and irregular patterns without a clear rhythm or depth, making it difficult to pinpoint a consistent breathing pattern. Each of these patterns has distinct characteristics that offer insights into different underlying health conditions.