Rare Preemie Conditions

Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia

What is bronchopulmonary dysplasia? BPD is a form of longer-term lung disease. It usually occurs as a result of the lungs' reaction to infection, oxygen, or mechanical ventilation at birth.

Is BPD dangerous? If left untreated, BPD can cause breathing problems and slowed growth. However, BPD is usually kept under control by continuous administration of oxygen.

How is BPD treated? A baby with BPD needs extra oxygen for a long period of time -- from several weeks to a year. Some babies with BPD are also treated with steroids, diuretics, or drugs to decrease wheezing.