Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD)

Babies born prematurely (Read about "Preterm Labor"), with underdeveloped lungs, or who experience respiratory problems shortly after birth, can develop a chronic lung disease called bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI), this condition develops in the first 4 weeks after birth and most often affects babies born at least 4 weeks early. The more premature the baby, the more likely they will develop BPD. BPD is characterized by inflammation and abnormal development of the airways. (Read about "Respiratory System") It is most often found in severely ill infants who have received prolonged oxygen support on respiratory ventilators. The American Lung Association (ALA) reports BPD can be a common complication of respiratory distress syndrome (Read about "Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Infants"), but it may also occur due to oxygen toxicity, mechanical lung trauma, infections or pneumonia. (Read about "Pneumonia")

Babies with BPD struggle to breathe. NHLBI lists these symptoms:

• rapid shallow breathing (tachypnea)
• sucked in ribs and chest with each breath (retractions)
• wheezing or whistling sound as baby breathes
• raising or stretching the neck by using the neck muscles to push more air into the lungs (head bobbing)
• movement of the chest and abdomen in opposite direction with every breath (see-saw breathing)
• repeated periods of bluish skin coloration (cyanosis) due to lack of oxygen

There currently are no medical treatments that cure BPD. Treatment is geared to support the breathing and oxygen needs of infants with BPD, allowing them to grow and thrive. ALA lists several options for support treatment including:

• supplemental oxygen
• antibiotics (Read about "Antibiotics")
• fluid restriction and diuretics to decrease fluid build-up in the lungs
• intravenous feeding
• physical therapy to improve muscle tone (Read about "Rehabilitation")
• bronchodilator medications can be used to open airways
• anti-inflammatory medications to reduce airway swelling

NHLBI estimates the average length of intensive in-hospital care for babies with BPD is 4 months. Even after the baby leaves the hospital, he or she may require continued medication, breathing treatments or supplemental oxygen at home.

Related Information:

    Baby and Young Child Care

    Newborn Concerns