[Bilateral pulmonary hypoplasia in neonates: a clinical and pathological review apropos of 17 cases].

17 neonates presenting with bilateral hypoplasia of the lungs are reported. Histologic examination of the 13 neonates who died before the 24th hour of life showed 2 histologic types: a "fetal" type, similar to the pulmonary histology of 16-20 weeks fetuses, and a "miniature" type, with reduced dimensions, of harmonious aspect. The association of pulmonary hypoplasia with other fetal malformations suggests a different pathophysiologic mechanism for each type. Recovery may be possible in children with the "miniature" type.