Bronchopulmonary dysplasia and pulmonary hypertension: To treat or not to treat?

Abstract:

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is the most common chronic respiratory disorder affecting infants born prematurely. Roughly 20% of significant cases are accompanied by pulmonary hypertension (PAH). Little is known about the long-term outcomes of affected infants, and the present day management paradigms are seldom based on evidence, but are a distillate of individual or institutional preferences and show tremendous variability in practice. This presentation will describe the relationship of PAH to BPD; the pathogenesis of PAH in BPD; explain what is currently known about the natural history of PAH in infants with BPD; describe current management practices; help to determine if infants with BPD and PAH actually require pharmacologic intervention; review available treatment options, side effects, and complications of treatment; and will examine the evidence base; and conclude with a summary of the current knowledge gaps.

Audience Take Away Notes:

•    Understand the relationship of PAH to BPD 
•    Realize the limited evidence base for determining treatment 
•    Review available treatment options
•    Comprehend the present knowledge gaps and need for more research

Biography:

Steven M. Donn, MD, FAAP, FAARC is a Professor Emeritus of Pediatrics at the University of Michigan Medical School in Ann Arbor, where he is a member of the Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine at C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital. He is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and its Sub-board of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine. Dr. Donn is actively involved in teaching, writing, editing, and clinical research.  He is a member of numerous professional societies and is internationally known for his expertise in the management of respiratory failure in newborns.  In 2020 he was named a Fellow of the American Association for Respiratory Care for his profound and lasting contribution to the profession of respiratory care. He has authored more than 240 medical journal articles, written or edited 37 books and specialty journals, and contributed 259 book chapters. Dr. Donn’s extracurricular interests include astronomy, international travel, photography, and spectator sports.