Progressive static pulmonary hyperinflation in survivors of severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia by mid-adulthood

Background: Severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) might be associated with an accelerated age-related decline of lung function. Methods: 14 individuals were studied longitudinally at 15 +/- 4, 18 +/- 3 and 38 +/- 3.2 years. Information on personal history was completed, and lung function testing and skin prick testing were performed. Longitudinal data were compared intra-individually and with matched controls from the NHANES III dataset. Results: The ratio of residual volume/total lung capacity (RV/TLC) increased markedly from 25.9 +/- 7.0% to 39.3 +/- 6.8%. A significant time-effect was found compared to controls for the forced vital capacity (FVC) which decreased more rapidly than expected. Flow values were at the lower limit of normal range but remained relatively stable over time. Some individuals had completely normal lung function results. Conclusion: Increasing static pulmonary hyperinflation with age is indicative of bronchiolar dysfunction or early emphysematous changes in survivors of severe BPD. Susceptibility for long-term sequelae shows significant variability.