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Response to bronchodilators in very preterm infants with evolving bronchopulmonary dysplasia

Daniel K Morrow1, Diane Schilling1, Cindy T McEvoy1

  • 1Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Road, Portland, OR, 97239, USA.

Research and Reports in Neonatology
|January 1, 2015
PubMed

Insights

Bronchodilators may improve respiratory resistance in premature infants with evolving bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Over half of very low birth weight (VLBW) infants showed reduced airway resistance after albuterol therapy, suggesting potential benefits for these vulnerable newborns.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal Medicine
  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Respiratory Physiology

Background:

  • Limited effective treatments exist for evolving bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants.
  • Bronchodilator use in VLBW infants with reactive airway disease lacks sufficient evidence on effectiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the pulmonary function response to bronchodilator therapy in VLBW infants diagnosed with evolving BPD.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of pulmonary function tests (PFTs) in VLBW infants (<1500g) requiring respiratory support.
  • Measured passive respiratory mechanics (compliance, resistance, tidal volume) before and 30 minutes after albuterol administration.
  • Included infants with respiratory distress syndrome and ongoing oxygen, CPAP, or ventilator support.

Main Results:

  • 52.5% of 40 VLBW infants demonstrated a ≥10% decrease in respiratory resistance (Rrs) post-albuterol.
  • 12.5% showed a minor decrease (0-<10%) in Rrs, while 35% had no response.
  • No significant changes in respiratory compliance (Crs) were observed between groups.

Conclusions:

  • Albuterol therapy demonstrated a positive response in respiratory resistance in over half of VLBW infants with evolving BPD.
  • The findings suggest a potential role for bronchodilators in managing reactive airway disease in this specific neonatal population.
  • Further research is warranted to confirm the clinical utility and optimal use of bronchodilators in VLBW infants with BPD.
Abstract

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