Bronchopulmonary dysplasia of prematurity (BPD) – Bronchopulmonary dysplasia

Bébé bronchodysplasie prématuré Néonatologie Pneumologie HUDERF Hôpital

What is bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) in premature infants?

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), also known as bronchopulmonary dysplasia, is a chronic lung disease affecting premature newborns who require prolonged respiratory support.

It results from several factors, including lung immaturity, aggressive mechanical ventilation, infections and oxidative stress.

Symptoms vary according to severity and include prolonged dependence on oxygen or respiratory support, tachypnoea, chest retractions and exercise intolerance. The diagnosis is made if a baby still requires oxygen or respiratory support at 36 weeks’ postmenstrual age.

Care

Management is based on a multidisciplinary approach aimed at reducing lung damage and supporting respiratory development.

  1. Preventive measures:
    • Prioritise non-invasive ventilation to limit lung damage.
    • Administer corticosteroids before birth to women at risk of preterm delivery to accelerate fetal lung maturation.
    • Use surfactant to improve lung function in premature infants with respiratory distress.
    • Limit neonatal infections by controlling antibiotic use and reinforcing preventive measures.
  2. Neonatal care:
    • Controlled oxygen therapy to prevent the harmful effects of hyperoxia.
    • Nutritional support to promote growth and improve lung capacity.
    • Administration of postnatal corticosteroids in specific cases.
    • Multidisciplinary support (neonatologists, pulmonologists, physiotherapists, psychologists) to organise care at home where necessary.
  3. Follow-up after discharge from hospital:
    • Regular respiratory monitoring and adjustment of treatment if symptoms persist.
    • Vaccinations (RSV, influenza, pneumococcus) to reduce the risk of severe respiratory infections.
    • Respiratory physiotherapy to improve secretion clearance and respiratory efficiency.
    • Long-term medical follow-up (pulmonology, cardiology, nutrition, neurodevelopment, psychosocial support).

At HUB, these children benefit from a multidisciplinary consultation allowing a comprehensive assessment by several specialists during the same appointment.

Advice for parents

  • Carefully follow the medical recommendations after discharge from hospital, particularly adjustments to oxygen therapy and respiratory care.
  • Follow the vaccination schedule (RSV, influenza, pneumococcus) to protect the child against infections that could worsen their condition.
  • Maintain a healthy lifestyle: avoid exposure to tobacco smoke, maintain a balanced diet and promote a healthy environment.
  • Be alert to respiratory signs: if the child has rapid breathing, chest retractions or excessive fatigue, it is important to seek medical advice promptly.
  • Maintain regular follow-up with the medical team (pulmonologists, paediatricians and physiotherapists) to monitor the progression of the disease and adjust care if necessary.
  • Seek support: psychological and educational support may be offered to parents to help them manage care at home and the emotional impact of the disease.
bronchodysplasie du prématuré bébé Huderf Hôpital Pneumologie néonatalogie

Specialists in bronchopulmonary dysplasia of prematurity (BPD)

Prof. Nicolas Lefèvre | Paediatric Pneumology Department