Chronic Lung Disease of Prematurity

Question 1

What is Chronic Lung Disease of Prematurity?

Answer 1

• CLDP = bronchopulmonary dysplasia
• Premature babies typically before 28 weeks gestation
• Suffer with Respiratory Distress Syndrome + require oxygen, intubation and ventilation

Question 2

What is the Presentation with a baby with CLDP?

Answer 2

• Low oxygen sats
• Increase work of breathing
• Poor feeding and weight gain
• Crackles and wheeze
• Increased susceptibility to infection

Question 3

How do you prevent CLDP?

Answer 3

• Neonate is unborn: 1. Give Corticosteroids (Betamethasone) to mothers who are suspected a premature labour
• Once the Neonate is born: 1. CPAP 2. Caffeine to stimulate the Respiratory effort 3. Not over-oxygenating

Question 4

What is the management of CLDP?

Answer 4

• 1. Sleep study to assess the oxygen saturation
• 2. Give supportive oxygen for home
• 3. Palivizumab (monoclonal antibody) monthly injections - protects against RSV