Neonatal pulmonary cytology and bronchopulmonary dysplasia.

Cytologic evaluation of tracheo-bronchial washings from neonates on oxygen-respirator treatment results in a fairly distinct sequence of changes. Significant cellular alterations occurred in this study at an earlier date than expected but the results correlate somewhat with the histologic changes as reported by Banersee, Girling, and Wigglesworth. However, cytomorphic changes occured with lower oxygen concentrations than anticipated and the data thus far have not allowed us to define which infant will develop the long term sequella of bronchopulmonary dysplasia. The preliminary data does suggest it may be possible to identify those infants who will develop severe metaplastic-dysplastic changes at an earlier date than usually expected.