Association Between Central Corneal Thickness and Growth Parameters Following Preterm

Abstract

Objective: To investigate central corneal thickness in prematurely born children and to evaluate the association between central corneal thickness and growth pattern during 3 months following preterm birth. Methods: In this prospective study, central corneal thickness, head circumference, body length and body weight measurements were performed in 32 infants at monthly intervals during the first 3 months following preterm birth. Central corneal thickness measurements were performed by using an ultrasonic pachymetry. Initial central corneal thickness measurements were performed 24 – 48 hours after delivery. The head circumference, body length and body weight measurements were performed within 24 hours following birth by a neonatologist. All measurements were carried out at 1st month, 2nd month and 3rd month in the same manner. Results: There were 18 female (56.2%) and 14 male (43.8%) infants. The mean gestational age and body weight at birth were 27.8 weeks and 1042±309.9 g, respectively. The mean head circumference and body length at birth were 26.2 cm and 36.3 cm, respectively. Mean central corneal thickness at birth was 666.03±92.6 µm. Central corneal thickness significantly decreased during the study period (p<0.001). Head circumference, body length and body weight showed significant increases following birth (p<0.001 for each). There was a significant negative correlation of central corneal thickness change with the body length change between 1st month and 2nd month (p<0.05). Conclusion:In this study, decrease of corneal thickness in prematurely born infants was found to be inversely correlated to body length alterations in early months of life. Key Words: Body length, Body weight, Central corneal thickness, Head circumference measurement, Premature