Wilson Mikity syndrome

Nearly 80 years ago, Wilson and Mikity described a syndrome (WMS) of chronic lung disease (CLD) in premature infants, characterized by early development of cystic interstitial emphysema (PIE), despite minimal ventilatory support. (1)

The validity of the diagnosis is currently unclear; now considered either an anachronism, part of BPD spectrum or included within various poorly defined diagnoses such as chronic pulmonary insufficiency of prematurity (CPIP). (2)

Wilson Mikity syndrome is now considered an old fashioned diagnosis in neonatology. It is defined as the need for supplemental oxygen after 28 days of age with characteristic hyperinflated and cystic lungs with areas of collapse on radiology. In contrast to bronchopulmonary dysplasia, there is no preceding severe respiratory disease.

It is clear that many of the cases attributed this diagnosis in the past are now placed in new categories; for example viral pneumonia, etc.

Reference

1. Wilson M, Mikity V. A new form of respiratory disease in premature infants. Am J Dis Child 1960; 99: 489–499.
2. Hoepker A et al. Wilson-Mikity syndrome: updated diagnostic criteria based on nine cases and a review of the literature. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2008 Oct;43(10):1004-12.