Glucocorticoids and Pulmonary Hypertension

Prospective Study of Glucocorticoids as a Mechanism to Treat Pulmonary Hypertension

Pediatric idiopathic pulmonary hypertension has significant morbidity and mortality. An ever expanding body of knowledge indicates the important contribution of inflammation to pathogenesis and successful treatment with glucocorticoids. Over the last several years the investigators have utilized steroids in patients with severe pulmonary hypertension as part of a treatment regimen. These basic science studies possibly identifies a biochemical etiology for the development of disease and may also be impacted by the administration of steroids. Additionally, there is a commercially available assay which tests for all of the above molecules.

Inclusion Criteria:

• premature, BPD, >36 wga
• pulmonary hypertension evidence by echocardiogram

Exclusion Criteria:

• poor ventilation/oxygenation