Chronic lung disease that begins in infancy

Also called BPD

Acute insult to the neonate’s lungs — respiratory distress syndrome, pneumonia, or meconium aspiration — requires positive-pressure ventilation and a high concentration of oxygen over time.

These therapies result in tissue and cellular injury and damage to the bronchiolar epithelium of the immature lung.

Ciliary activity is inhibited; therefore, the child has trouble clearing mucus from the lungs.

Recovery usually occurs in 6 to 12 months; however, the child may remain ventilator-dependent for years.

Possible genetic factors

Prematurity

Ventilatory support with high positive airway pressure and oxygen in the first 2 weeks of life

Atelectasis

Crackles, rhonchi, or wheezing

Delayed development