Fluticasone inhalation in moderate cases of bronchopulmonary dysplasia

Objective. This randomized, controlled trial was designed to determine the efficacy of inhaled fluticasone propionate on oxygen therapy weaning in a population of preterm infants who were born at 21 days between the study groups. Conclusion. We conclude that fluticasone propionate reduces neither supplemental [O.sub.2] use nor the need for ventilatory support in this patient population. However, fluticasone does have a positive radiologic effect in lowering chest radiograph scores. In addition, our data point to a possible association among inhaled fluticasone treatment and higher arterial blood pressure. Thus, the results of this investigation do not support the use of inhaled corticosteroids in the treatment of oxygen-dependent infants who have established moderate BPD. URL: www.pediatrics.org/cgi/doi/ 10.1542/peds.2004-0951; neonatal bronchopulmonary dysplasia, clinical trial, glucocorticoids, oxygen inhalation therapy.