bronchopulmonary dysplasia
A chronic lung disease in premature infants characterized by abnormal development of lung tissue and airways.
Full Definition
A serious chronic lung condition that primarily affects very premature infants who have received mechanical ventilation and oxygen therapy. BPD is characterized by inflammation and scarring of the lungs, leading to abnormal development of lung tissue and airways. The condition results from a combination of factors including lung immaturity, oxygen toxicity, mechanical ventilation trauma, and infection. Infants with BPD may require prolonged oxygen supplementation and have increased risk of respiratory infections and feeding difficulties. The severity is often classified as mild, moderate, or severe based on oxygen requirements at 36 weeks corrected gestational age.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as BPD; avoid confusion with bipolar disorder in psychiatric contexts.
In Context
- "The extremely preterm infant developed moderate bronchopulmonary dysplasia and required home oxygen therapy." — Discharge summary
- "Prevention strategies for bronchopulmonary dysplasia include gentle ventilation and early caffeine administration." — Clinical protocol