Long-term respiratory outcome of babies born prematurely

Abstract

Chronic respiratory morbidity is a common adverse outcome of premature birth, particularly in infants who develop bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Prematurely born infants who had BPD may require supplementary oxygen at home for many months, but few remain oxygen dependent beyond 2 years of age. Readmission to hospital is common, particularly for those who had BPD, but only in the first 2 years after birth. The readmissions are usually for respiratory problems, particularly respiratory syncytial virus lower respiratory infections. Recurrent respiratory symptoms requiring treatment are common, particularly in those who had BPD, even at school age and in adolescence. Affected children have evidence of airways obstruction. Pulmonary function does improve with age, but children with BPD may have ongoing airflow limitation. Computed tomography of the chest gives helpful information at follow up of patients with ongoing respiratory problems who had BPD.