Perinatal modulators of respiratory outcome after preterm birth

Ten percent of all children are born preterm. Preterm birth increases the risk of death and diseases, among which chronic lung damage. In lung fluid of premature infants changes were found that can predict and partly explain lung damage. Furthermore, children were examined that were born after a uterus infection, main cause for preterm birth. There are indications that they can be better treated by raised dosage and more extensive application of medicines that are already used in practice. This can lead to a strong decrease of disease and death. It shows that early prediction of disease and specific treatment can contribute to a better future for premature infants.