Preterm growth restriction and bronchopulmonary dysplasia: the vascular hypothesis and related physiology

Abstract

Key points: Approximately 5–10% pregnancies are affected by fetal growth restriction. Preterm infants affected by fetal growth restriction have a higher incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia. The present study is the first to measure pulmonary artery thickness and stiffness. The findings show that impaired vasculogenesis may be a contributory factor in the higher incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia in preterm growth restricted infants. The study addresses the mechanistic link between fetal programming and vascular architecture and mechanics. Abstract: Bronchopulmonary dysplasia is the most common respiratory sequelae of prematurity and histopathologically features fewer, dysmorphic pul..