Postnatal Steroids in Preterm Infants: A Narrative Review Series—Part 3: Impacts on Growth, Neurodevelopment & Nutrition

Abstract

Background: Postnatal corticosteroids (CS) improve respiratory outcomes in preterm infants, but effects on growth and neurodevelopment remain incompletely understood. Methods: This third instalment of a narrative review series builds on physiologic principles to examine systemic CS consequences. Main Findings: We explore the interplay between growth restriction, hypoxia, and neurodevelopmental vulnerability, discussing brain imaging, metabolic disruptions, and HPA axis suppression. Conclusion: This review advocates for a holistic, physiology-informed approach to optimize outcomes by integrating nutritional vulnerability with cardiorespiratory status.