Pulmonary Hypertension and Vascular Abnormalities in Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia

Peter M Mourani1, Steven H Abman2

  • 1Section of Pediatric Critical Care, Pediatric Heart Lung Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, School of Medicine, 13121 East 17th Avenue, MS8414, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.

Clinics in Perinatology
|November 24, 2015
PubMed

Insights

Preterm infants face risks of bronchopulmonary dysplasia and pulmonary vascular disease, impacting lung development and long-term health. Further research is needed to understand these complex conditions and improve infant outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatology
  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Developmental Biology

Background:

  • Preterm infants are susceptible to bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), leading to chronic respiratory issues.
  • Pulmonary vascular disease (PVD), including pulmonary hypertension (PH), is an emerging concern in BPD.
  • PVD significantly impacts lung development and clinical outcomes in preterm neonates.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current understanding of pulmonary vascular disease in preterm infants with BPD.
  • To highlight the incidence and outcomes associated with PH in this vulnerable population.
  • To identify knowledge gaps in PVD associated with BPD.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of epidemiologic studies on PH in preterm infants.
  • Analysis of existing data on the impact of PVD on BPD outcomes.
  • Synthesis of current research on lung development and pulmonary circulation.

Main Results:

  • Preterm infants with BPD are at increased risk for PVD, including PH.
  • Epidemiologic studies show a notable incidence of PH in this population.
  • Significant gaps remain in understanding the pathophysiology and management of PVD in BPD.

Conclusions:

  • Pulmonary vascular disease is a critical complication of BPD in preterm infants.
  • Improved understanding of PVD is essential for better management and outcomes.
  • Further research is warranted to address the identified knowledge gaps in PVD and BPD.

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