Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia: Ongoing Challenges from Definitions to Clinical Care

Abstract

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is the most common complication of extreme prematurity. Its etiology is multifactorial and is attributed to genetic susceptibility to prenatal and postnatal factors. As advancements in neonatology have led to the increased survival of premature infants, a parallel increase in the incidence of BPD has occurred. Over time, the definition and diagnostic criteria for BPD have evolved, as have management strategies. However, challenges continue to exist in the management of these infants, which is not surprising given the complexity of the disease. We summarize the key diagnostic criteria and provide insight into the challenges related to various aspects of BPD definitions, data comparisons, and clinical care implementation.

Keywords

• bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD)
• chronic lung disease (CLD)
• neonatal intensive care unit (NICU)
• gestational age (GA)
• post-menstrual age (PMA)
• continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP)