Assessment of corticosteroids in prevention and treatment of neonatal bronchopulmonary dysplasia

There is a great controversy over the application of corticosteroids in preventing and treating bronchopulmonary dysplasia(BPD). Prenatal use of corticosteroids may reduce the occurrence of BPD.Intravenous corticosteroids within 1 week after birth can reduce the incidence of BPD.However, in light of the short and long-term adverse reactions, it is not recommended.For premature infants with BPD in high risk, clinicians should weigh the pros and cons and may apply a small dose, short course of corticosteroids for intervention in 1 week after birth.Early inhalation or instilling of corticosteroids may be an effective and safe way to reduce the occurrence of BPD. Key words: Bronchopulmonary dysplasia; Corticosteroids; Infant, premature