Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia

What is bronchopulmonary dysplasia?

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia is a chronic lung disease that can occur in infants. It most often affects premature babies who need help breathing. The condition occurs when the baby's lungs are damaged from being on a respirator or having oxygen therapy. Most babies with bronchopulmonary dysplasia weigh less than 2 pounds at birth and are born more than 10 weeks premature.

The lungs of infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia may not develop properly. This can put children at risk for lung problems and developmental issues as they grow.

What are the signs and symptoms of bronchopulmonary dysplasia?

Some common symptoms of bronchopulmonary dysplasia include:

• Shortness of breath
• Cough
• Rapid breathing
• Blue tint to the skin

What causes bronchopulmonary dysplasia?

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia can occur when an infant with underdeveloped lungs needs to receive oxygen for a long time or be on a breathing machine. This can damage the lungs.

How is bronchopulmonary dysplasia treated?

There is no cure for bronchopulmonary dysplasia. The goal of treatment is to limit the amount of damage to the lungs so they can heal and grow. Your care team at Arkansas Children's is experienced in treating bronchopulmonary dysplasia in children and will work with you to determine the best course of treatment for your child. Options may include:

• Oxygen given through the nose
• A breathing machine
• Nutritional support to help them grow
• Medicines to reduce inflammation in the lungs or to make breathing easier
• Medicines to treat infection