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Published on: October 31, 2025

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia associated pulmonary hypertension: implications across the lifespan

Taylor P Saley1, Natalie Villafranco2, Megan Griffiths3

  • 1The University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School, 4910 Mueller Blvd. Suite 100A, Austin, TX 78723, USA.

Paediatric Respiratory Reviews
|June 22, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia with pulmonary hypertension (BPD-PH) can resolve in infancy but may persist lifelong. Early intervention optimizes vascular growth, but lifelong monitoring is crucial for survivors of preterm birth.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatology
  • Pulmonology
  • Pediatric Cardiology

Background:

  • Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a common complication of preterm birth, frequently leading to pulmonary hypertension (BPD-PH).
  • BPD-PH presents with underdeveloped pulmonary vasculature and altered microvascular function, contributing to significant infant morbidity and mortality.
  • Improved neonatal care increases survival rates, with a trend towards BPD-PH resolution through respiratory support and growth.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the lifelong care of patients with BPD-PH.
  • To highlight critical windows of opportunity for intervention across the lifespan.
  • To emphasize strategies for reducing lifetime pulmonary hypertension exposure.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of BPD-PH natural history and management.
  • Analysis of hemodynamic phenotypes and vascular development.
  • Examination of long-term outcomes in preterm survivors.

Main Results:

  • While BPD-PH may resolve in infancy, long-term follow-up reveals persistent or recurrent pulmonary hypertension into adulthood.
  • The pulmonary vasculature undergoes development, growth, and aging, with each stage presenting unique risks for BPD-PH.
  • Early recognition and intervention are key to optimizing vascular growth potential.

Conclusions:

  • The concept of BPD-PH "resolution" requires reevaluation due to lifelong vascular risks.
  • Lifespan care strategies are essential to manage BPD-PH and mitigate long-term pulmonary hypertension burden.
  • Targeting developmental windows can reduce lifetime pulmonary hypertension exposure in BPD survivors.

Keywords:
Bronchopulmonary dysplasiaDevelopmentPrematurityPulmonary hypertensionPulmonary vasculature

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