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Protocol and Guidelines for Point-of-Care Lung Ultrasound in Diagnosing Neonatal Pulmonary Diseases Based on International Expert Consensus
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Protocol and Guidelines for Point-of-Care Lung Ultrasound in Diagnosing Neonatal Pulmonary Diseases Based on International Expert Consensus

Published on: March 6, 2019

[Adult respiratory sequelae of premature birth]

N Gasior1, M David, V Millet

  • 1Service de pneumologie, CHU Nord, Marseille, France.

Revue Des Maladies Respiratoires
|December 14, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Adults born prematurely, especially those with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), face unknown long-term respiratory risks. Physicians must recognize these patient groups to anticipate potential chronic obstructive pulmonary disease development.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatology
  • Pulmonology
  • Adult Respiratory Medicine

Background:

  • Premature birth affects 5-7% of newborns, with known pediatric respiratory issues like bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD).
  • Limited data exists on the long-term respiratory health of adults born prematurely.
  • Ex-premature individuals are categorized into three groups with varying respiratory risks in adulthood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the respiratory risks in adult populations born prematurely.
  • To inform respiratory physicians about distinct patient groups with potential long-term pulmonary complications.
  • To underscore the need for awareness regarding the adult respiratory status of ex-premature individuals.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on respiratory outcomes in premature infants transitioning to adulthood.
  • Categorization of ex-premature individuals based on BPD status and neonatal care intensity.
  • Analysis of known respiratory morbidities associated with prematurity and BPD.

Main Results:

  • Ex-premature individuals without BPD are understudied regarding adult respiratory health.
  • Ex-premature individuals with BPD face increased risks of asthma, infections, and bronchial issues, with limited data beyond age 30.
  • A new BPD cohort born very prematurely may have concerning long-term prognoses due to reduced lung volumes.

Conclusions:

  • Respiratory physicians must be aware of the distinct groups of adults who were born prematurely.
  • These individuals may develop chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) later in life.
  • Proactive monitoring and understanding of these patient groups are crucial for managing future respiratory health.
Abstract

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