Taylor P. Saley, Natalie Villafranco, Megan Griffiths, Kara N. Goss
University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School. Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital. University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center.
United States
Paediatric Respiratory Reviews
Paediatr Respir Rev 2026;
DOI: 10.1016/j.prrv.2026.05.006
Abstract
Bronchopulmonary dysplasia is a frequent complication of preterm birth and is often associated with the development of pulmonary hypertension (BPD-PH). BPD-PH is a multifactorial disease with variable hemodynamic phenotypes typically characterized by underdeveloped pulmonary vascular networks with altered microvascular function, carrying significant morbidity and mortality in infancy. Advances in neonatal care have improved the survival of preterm infants. Amongst survivors, there is a trend toward resolution of BPD-PH with adequate respiratory support and somatic growth, highlighting the importance of early recognition and intervention to optimize vascular growth potential. However, as this population ages the idea of “resolution” has been brought into question. There is increasing awareness of subclinical or recurrent pulmonary hypertension as survivors of prematurity from childhood through early adulthood suggesting that the vasculature remains at risk throughout life. The natural history of pulmonary vasculature is one of development, growth and aging. Each window presents unique opportunities and potential insults that impact overall BPD-PH severity and progression. Here we review care of the BPD-PH patient across the lifespan highlighting windows of opportunity to reduce lifetime exposure to pulmonary hypertension.
Category
Class III. Pulmonary Hypertension Associated with Lung Disease
Review Articles Concerning Pulmonary Vascular Disease
Age Focus: Pediatric Pulmonary Vascular Disease or Adult Pulmonary Vascular Disease
Fresh or Filed Publication: Fresh (PHresh). Less than 1-2 years since publication
Article Access
Free PDF File or Full Text Article Available Through PubMed or DOI: No