Introduction: We have shown increased reactive airways disease(RAD) among ECMO survivors <4 yrs (Peditr Res 1995;37:253A). However, there are no data regarding pulmonary health at school age.

Methods: From Jan-Oct,1996, 34 ECMO survivors (5-10 yrs) were evaluated (history, physical exam, peak expiratory flow=PEF). Abnormal PEF is defined as 31SD below means for height and gender.

Results: All had no wheezing at follow-up exam (mean age 7.3±1.1 yrs). Nevertheless, 13/34 children (38%) had abnormal PEF of which only 2 were on bronchodilators, and 21/34 (62%) had normal PEF, one who was treated. ECMO diagnoses and courses, follow-up age, gender and passive smoking exposure were similar in both groups. In contrast, African-American race (normal PEF 1/21 or 5% v abnormal PEF 5/13 or 33%, P<.05), and allergic family history (normal 9/21 or 43% v 10/13 or 77%, P=.10) were more common in the abnomal PEF group. Although RAD frequency was greater in the abnormal PEF group (8/13 v 10/21 normal PEF) this was not significant.

Conclusions: The frequency of abnormal PEF is of concern in school age survivors of neonatal ECMO. Children with demographic risk factors(other than neonatal diagnosis and ECMO course) such as African-American race and allergic family history should be monitored into school age using PEF.

NIH Support: NS-27463, NS-21453