Current dilemmas in postnatal steroid therapy for chronic lung disease in preterm infants

Abstract

Postnatal steroid therapy has been widely used for the prevention and treatment of chronic lung disease in preterm infants. Recently, evidence has accumulated to suggest that the risks of therapy may outweigh the possible benefits. In 2002, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Canadian Paediatric Society issued guidelines for steroid use. While clarifying a confusing situation, these guidelines have given rise to much controversy. This review will summarize current information on the clinical trials of steroids and also consider the issues surrounding the guidelines.