Long-term effects of postnatal corticosteroids to prevent or treat bronchopulmonary dysplasia: Balancing the risks and benefits

Postnatal corticosteroids are effective in preventing or treating bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) in preterm newborns, but their benefits need to exceed their risks. Several types of corticosteroids, and different timing and administration modes have been trialed. Systemic corticosteroids, given either early or late, have proven efficacy for reducing BPD and the combined outcome of death or BPD. Inhaled corticosteroids are less effective. However, systemic dexamethasone given early is associated with more neurosensory disability and cerebral palsy in survivors.
Source: Seminars in Fetal and Neonatal Medicine - Category: Perinatology & Neonatology Authors: Source Type: research