Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 20, 2026
08:58
Development of a Neonatal Piglet Acute Lung Injury Model Recreating the Early Environment of Preterm Infant Lungs
Published on: October 31, 2025
Pathogenesis of bronchopulmonary dysplasia
Don Hayes1, David J Feola, Brian S Murphy
1Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy, Lexington, KY 40536, USA. don.hayes@uky.edu
Respiration; International Review of Thoracic Diseases
|September 30, 2009
Summary
Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a lung disorder in premature infants caused by lung injury and inflammation. Understanding its changing pathogenesis is key to improving infant lung health.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Respiratory Physiology
Background:
- Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a chronic lung disease affecting premature infants.
- It arises from a complex interaction of prematurity, surfactant deficiency, perinatal infections, and mechanical ventilation.
- These factors lead to inflammation, impaired lung development, and altered alveolarization and vascularization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of Bronchopulmonary dysplasia pathogenesis.
- To discuss the evolution of BPD in the post-surfactant era, termed 'new' BPD.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current medical research on BPD pathogenesis.
- Analysis of factors contributing to lung damage and repair cycles in infants.
Main Results:
- BPD pathogenesis involves a multifactorial process including lung immaturity and iatrogenic injuries.
- Chronic inflammation and aberrant repair mechanisms significantly impact lung development.
- 'New' BPD reflects changes in disease presentation and mechanisms following advancements in neonatal care.
Conclusions:
- The pathogenesis of BPD is dynamic and influenced by evolving medical interventions.
- Continued research into BPD pathogenesis is crucial for developing targeted therapies and improving outcomes for premature infants.
Related Concept Videos
01:24Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease III: Chronic Bronchitis Features
Chronic bronchitis is a key phenotype of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), characterized by airway-centered inflammation and mucus overproduction. It develops from long-term exposure to harmful particles or gases, most commonly cigarette smoke, which triggers a persistent inflammatory response.Cellular and Structural ChangesInflammation initially affects the large bronchi and later the smaller airways, with infiltration by immune cells, including neutrophils, macrophages, and...
01:20Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-II: Pathophysiology
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) pathophysiology is intricate and multifaceted, involving a complex interplay of physiological processes. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for effectively managing and treating COPD. Here is an in-depth look at the critical elements in the pathophysiology of COPD:
Chronic Inflammation
Chronic Inflammation
01:23Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease I: Introduction
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a common, preventable, and treatable respiratory disorder characterized by persistent symptoms and progressive airflow limitation. This limitation results from a combination of small-airway disease (obstructive bronchiolitis) and parenchymal destruction (emphysema), both driven by chronic inflammation from exposure to harmful particles or gases.The disease includes two main pathological entities: emphysema, marked by destruction of alveolar walls and...
01:17Pulmonary Cycle: Exhalation
In terms of human respiration, the act of expelling air, known as exhalation (or expiration), operates on the principle of pressure gradients. During expiration, the pressure within the lungs exceeds that of the surrounding atmosphere. Under normal conditions, quiet breathing involves passive exhalation and is free of muscular contractions. This is because the exhalation process is driven by the natural elastic recoil of the lungs and chest wall, both of which have an inherent tendency to...
01:20Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management
Asthma is a chronic pulmonary condition involving inflammation of the airways, hyper-reactivity, and reversible obstruction of the airways. This condition can significantly impact a person's quality of life, making breathing difficult and leading to distressing symptoms.
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
01:23Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease II: Emphysema
Emphysema, a major phenotype of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is characterized by irreversible destruction of alveolar walls and permanent enlargement of distal airspaces. Unlike chronic bronchitis, which primarily affects the airways, emphysema predominantly involves the lung parenchyma, where structural damage leads to airflow limitation.PathophysiologyIt most commonly results from prolonged exposure to cigarette smoke and other toxic gases, particularly cigarette smoke.