Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia

Definition

Definition of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
Bronchopulmonary dysplasia is a chronic lung disorder that is most common among children who were born prematurely, with low birthweights and who received prolonged mechanical ventilation to treat respiratory distress syndrome.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia

1. Bluish skin color (cyanosis)
2. Cough
3. Rapid breathing
4. Shortness of breath

Causes

Causes of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
Most BPD cases occur in premature infants, usually those who are born at 34 weeks' gestation or before and weigh less than 4.5 pounds (2,000 grams). These babies are more likely to be affected by infant respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), also called hyaline membrane disease, which occurs as a result of tissue damage to the lungs from being on a mechanical ventilator for a long time.

Mechanical ventilators do the breathing for babies whose lungs are too immature to allow them to breathe on their own and supplies oxygen to their lungs. Oxygen is delivered through a tube inserted into the baby's trachea (windpipe) and is given under pressure from the machine to properly move air into stiff, underdeveloped lungs. Sometimes, for these babies to survive, the amount of oxygen given must be higher than the oxygen concentration in the air we commonly breathe.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
The classic diagnosis of BPD may be assigned at 28 days of life if the following criteria are met:

1. Positive pressure ventilation during the first 2 weeks of life for a minimum of 3 days.
2. Clinical signs of abnormal respiratory function.
3. Requirements for supplemental oxygen for longer than 28 days of age to maintain PaO2 above 50 mm Hg.
4. Chest radiograph with diffuse abnormal findings characteristic of BPD.

Treatment

Treatment of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
No available medical treatment can immediately cure bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Treatment is geared to support the breathing and oxygen needs of infants with BPD and to enable them to grow and thrive.

Prognosis

Prognosis of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
Babies with BPD get better slowly over time. It's possible for infants to need oxygen therapy for many months. Some infants with this condition might not survive. Some children are left with long-term lung damage.

Prevention

Prevention of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
Prevent premature delivery whenever possible. Certain pregnant women can take the medication betamethasone to help prevent RSV in their newborns.