The evolvement of definition and nomenclature in bronchopulmonary dysplasia and advances in its treatment

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), also called chronic lung disease (CLD), is a common respiratory disease of premature infants.It was first reported and named by Northway et al, carrying unique etiology, pathology and clinical features.BPD reported by Northway is referred as old or classic BPD.Manifestations and prognosis of premature infants with respiratory diseases have been improved significantly after evolutional changes by applying glucocorticoid and exogenous surfactant, as well as protective ventilator protocols after birth.Nowadays, incidents of severe BPD described by Northway are extremely low, whereas mild BPD, also called 'new’ BPD, is much more common.Definition and nomenclature of BPD have been controversial since first being brought out in 1967.This article was focused on the definition and nomenclature and current advances in BPD treatment. Key words: Bronchopulmonary dysplasia; Chronic lung disease; Definition; Nomenclature; Treatment