Lung function and sleep-disordered breathing in preschoolers born very preterm

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Pulmonology
• Neonatal Medicine
• Respiratory Physiology

Background:

• Very preterm birth and very low birth weight are associated with increased risks of respiratory complications.
• Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a commoncomplication in these infants, potentially affecting long-term respiratory health.
• Small airway dysfunction and sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) are emerging concerns in this vulnerable population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the prevalence of abnormal small airway function and sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) in preschoolers born very preterm with very low birth weight.
• To investigate the association between these respiratory abnormalities and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) and other neonatal risk factors.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 22 preschoolers (3-6 years) born before 32 weeks gestation with birth weight <1500g.
• Respiratory oscillometry measured resistance and reactance parameters (R5, X5, R5-19, AX, fres).
• Nocturnal oximetry assessed oxygen desaturation indices (ODI3, ODI4).

Main Results:

• A high prevalence of abnormal oscillometry (e.g., AX 45.0%, fres 40.0%) and oximetry (ODI3 38.1%) was observed.
• 54.5% of the children had a history of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD).
• No significant associations were found between respiratory abnormalities and BPD or other neonatal risk factors.

Conclusions:

• Preschoolers born very preterm and with very low birth weight exhibit a high burden of abnormal small airway function.
• Sleep-disordered breathing is likely prevalent in this cohort, though further investigation is warranted.
• These respiratory findings appear independent of bronchopulmonary dysplasia and other neonatal complications.