Pediatrics & Therapeutics
Open Access

Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia in Newborn Babies: Understanding the Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Joseph A Iocono^{* *}Correspondence: Joseph A Iocono, Department of Surgery, The University of Kentucky, Markey Cancer Center, Lexington, USA, Email:

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Description

Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD) is a chronic lung disease that affects premature infants, particularly those who have been treated with oxygen and mechanical ventilation for Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS). BPD is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in premature infants, and its incidence has been increasing in recent years due to advances in neonatal care.

Causes of bronchopulmonary dysplasia

BPD is caused by damage to the developing lungs of premature infants, primarily due to mechanical ventilation and oxygen therapy. The immature lungs of premature infants are not fully developed, making them more susceptible to lung injury. Mechanical ventilation is often necessary to support breathing in premature infants with RDS, but it can cause lung injury by overstretching and damaging the delicate air sacs and blood vessels in the lungs.

Oxygen therapy can also cause lung injury by generating free radicals that damage lung tissue. Infants who require prolonged oxygen therapy are at higher risk of developing BPD. Other factors that may contribute to the development of BPD include infection, inflammation, and genetic factors.

Symptoms of bronchopulmonary dysplasia

The symptoms of BPD can vary depending on the severity of the disease. Mild cases may only present with a persistent cough, while severe cases can lead to respiratory failure and require mechanical ventilation. Other common symptoms of BPD include:

• Rapid breathing

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath

• Wheezing

• Cyanosis (blue-colored skin)

• Poor weight gain

• Fatigue or lethargy

• Pulmonary hypertension (high blood pressure in the lungs)

• Increased risk of lung infections

Diagnosis of bronchopulmonary dysplasia

The diagnosis of BPD is typically made based on a combination of clinical symptoms, chest x-rays, and oxygen saturation levels. Infants who have required mechanical ventilation and oxygen therapy for RDS are at higher risk of developing BPD. A chest xray may reveal signs of lung damage, such as scarring or bronchiectasis.

Oxygen saturation levels may be monitored using a pulse oximeter, which measures the amount of oxygen in the blood. Infants with BPD may have low oxygen saturation levels, even with high levels of oxygen therapy. In some cases, a lung biopsy may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis of BPD.

Treatment of bronchopulmonary dysplasia

There is no cure for BPD, but the disease can be managed with appropriate medical care. Treatment of BPD typically focuses on supporting the infant's breathing and promoting lung growth and development. Some common treatments for BPD include:

Oxygen therapy: Infants with BPD may require oxygen therapy to maintain adequate oxygen levels in the blood. Oxygen therapy can be administered through a nasal cannula or a ventilator.

Bronchodilators: Bronchodilators are medications that relax the muscles in the airways, making it easier to breathe. They may be administered through an inhaler or a nebulizer.

Diuretics: Diuretics are medications that help to remove excess fluid from the body, which can be helpful in reducing fluid buildup in the lungs.

Nutritional support: Infants with BPD may require special nutritional support to promote growth and development. This may include fortified breast milk, formula, or a feeding tube.

Steroids: In some cases, corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation in the lungs and promote lung growth. Preventing BPD requires a multifaceted approach that involves reducing the risk of premature birth, minimizing the need for mechanical ventilation and oxygen.