Which of the following is a potential long-term complication of bronchopulmonary dysplasia?

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a chronic lung disease commonly seen in premature infants, particularly those who receive mechanical ventilation and supplemental oxygen. One of the significant long-term complications associated with BPD is developmental delays. This is due to several factors, including the extent of respiratory support needed during early life, which can impact brain development, as well as the overall health challenges that may persist in these infants.

Infants with BPD may experience a variety of challenges, including any mix of neurological, motor, and cognitive delays, which can affect their growth and development as they age. Early intervention and consistent follow-up care are crucial to support these infants as they grow, as it can significantly improve long-term outcomes.

The other options reflect issues that are not primary long-term concerns related to BPD. Sore throat, for example, is commonly a transient issue and not a known complication of BPD. Severe dehydration is more related to feeding and fluid management rather than a direct consequence of lung issues from BPD. Impaired vision can occur in premature infants but is more directly linked to retinopathy of prematurity rather than the lung complications of BPD specifically. Thus, developmental delays are the most pertinent and studied long-term complications