What is Alveolar Capillary Dysplasia

Alveolar Capillary Dysplasia (ACD) is a rare and life-threatening lung disorder that affects newborns. It is characterized by abnormal development of the blood vessels in the lungs, specifically the capillaries that surround the alveoli (air sacs). This condition leads to severe respiratory distress and low oxygen levels in affected infants.

ACD is typically diagnosed shortly after birth when infants experience difficulty breathing and fail to respond to standard treatments. The exact cause of ACD is not fully understood, but it is believed to be a genetic disorder that occurs sporadically.

Unfortunately, ACD has a poor prognosis, with most affected infants not surviving beyond the first few months of life. Lung transplantation is currently the only known treatment option, but it is associated with significant challenges and risks.

Research efforts are ongoing to better understand the underlying mechanisms of ACD and develop potential therapies to improve outcomes for affected infants.