What is the primary cause of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD)?

Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD) primarily occurs as a result of several factors related to the care of premature infants, but oxygen toxicity plays a critical role. BPD is characterized by injury to the lungs caused by mechanical ventilation and oxygen therapy necessary for premature infants who often have underdeveloped lungs. When high levels of oxygen are administered, it can lead to oxidative stress and inflammation in the lungs, contributing to the injury of pulmonary tissues and ultimately resulting in BPD.

Understanding BPD's development highlights the delicate balance caregivers must maintain when providing oxygen and respiratory support to vulnerable infants. The condition is not solely attributable to pre-existing factors such as aspiration of meconium, viral infections, or intrauterine growth restriction, which also impact lung health but do not specifically lead to the characteristic lung injuries seen in BPD. Thus, while various factors can influence the risk of BPD, oxygen toxicity stands out as the primary cause in the context of the disease's development in premature infants.