Development Of Retinopathy Of Prematurity Research Articles

Do preterm infants’ retinas like bovine colostrum? A randomized controlled trial

BackgroundBovine colostrum (BC) with liposomal delivery system (LDS) is a promising supplement to premature infant formula in absence of mother own milk. We propose that BC with LDS can target multiple etiological factors that threaten the developing retina, making premature infant less liable for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of BC with LDS in the prevention of ROP.MethodsThis was a single center, randomized, controlled trial. Two hundred and eleven preterm infants of gestational age ≤ 32weeks were admitted to the NICU of Alexandria University Children Hospital, Egypt, and randomly allocated into either non-BC group (n = 105) or BC group (n = 106). Patients in BC group received 3.5 ml /kg/day of BC for 14 days. All patients were monitored for development of ROP, anemia, late onset sepsis (LOS), bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), periventricular leukomalacia (PVL) and necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), in addition to growth assessment. Multivariate binary logistic regression analysis was performed to determine factors predicting ROP development.ResultsCompared with the non-BC group, BC group was associated with a significantly lower incidence of ROP (5/100 vs. 16/100, respectively) with a p-value of 0.033. The administration of BC significantly decreased serum C- reactive protein (CRP) level and increased weight on day-14 of the study in comparison with the CRP level and birthweight at the beginning of study, with Cohen’s D= -0.184, D = -2.246, respectively. Patients with suspected sepsis were significantly less in BC than non-BC group, p = 0.004. Patients with BC had significantly higher hemoglobin level on day-14 than non-BC-group, with median (IQR) 12.2 (11.0–13.9) and 11.7 (10.5–12.9), respectively. BC intake is one of factors that decreased development of ROP in univariate analysis. Nevertheless, weight gain and birth weight were the most significant factors affecting ROP development in multivariate-regression model.ConclusionBC may reduce the incidence of ROP in preterm neonates aged ≤ 32 weeks. This might be due to keeping better Hb level and growth rate, as well as anti-inflammatory properties through its ability to decrease CRP level.Trial registrationThis work was registered on 06/13/2022 in clinicaltrial.gov with ID no.: NCT05438680 and URL:https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05438680?term=NCT05438680&draw=2&rank=1.

Retinopathy of Prematurity in Eight Portuguese Neonatal Intensive Care Units: Incidence, Risk Factors, and Progression-A Prospective Multicenter Study.

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a retinal neovascular disease affecting preterm infants. Identifying risk factors for its development and progression is critical for effective screening and prevention. This study aimed to analyze the incidence of ROP and identify key risk factors for its development and progression. We conducted a prospective, observational cohort study on 455 neonates (gestational age [GA] < 32 weeks or birth weight < 1500 g) across eight Portuguese NICUs. ROP incidence was 37.8%, with 4.6% requiring treatment. Multivariate analysis identified low GA and the number of red blood cell (RBC) transfusions as significant factors for ROP development and progression. After adjusting for these variables, platelet transfusions, high maximum fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) in the second week, and surfactant use remained significantly associated with ROP development, while early and late sepsis, maternal chronic hypertension, and delayed enteral nutrition were associated with progression to ROP requiring treatment. These findings underscore the importance of addressing low GAs and adult RBC transfusions in ROP risk management and suggest that maximum FiO2, platelet transfusions, and sepsis also play crucial roles. Larger studies are needed to validate these results and explore preventive interventions, particularly regarding the impact of multiple adult RBC transfusions on fetal hemoglobin percentages.

Red Blood Cell Transfusion for Incidence of Retinopathy of Prematurity: Prospective Multicenter Cohort Study.

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a leading cause of visual impairment and blindness in preterm infants. This study sought to investigate the association between red blood cell (RBC) transfusion and ROP in very preterm infants (VPIs) to inform clinical strategies for ROP prevention and treatment. We designed a prospective multicenter cohort study that included VPIs and follow-up data from January 2017 to December 2022 at 3 neonatal clinical medicine centers. They were categorized into a transfusion group (infants who received an RBC transfusion within 4 wk) and a nontransfusion group. The relationship between RBC transfusion and ROP incidence was assessed using binary logistic regression, with subgroup analyses based on gestational age, birth weight, sex, and sepsis status. Inverse probability of treatment weighting and propensity score matching were applied to account for all potential confounding factors that could affect ROP development, followed by sensitivity analysis. The study included 832 VPIs, including 327 in the nontransfusion group and 505 in the transfusion group. The transfusion group had a lower average birth weight and gestational age and a greater incidence of ROP, ≥stage 2 ROP, and severe ROP. Logistic regression analysis revealed that the transfusion group had a significantly greater risk of ROP (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.70, 95% CI 1.14-2.53, P=.009) and ≥stage 2 ROP (aOR 1.68, 95% CI 1.02-2.78, P=.04) but not severe ROP (aOR 1.75, 95% CI 0.61-5.02, P=.30). The trend analysis also revealed an increased risk of ROP with an increasing number of transfusions and a larger volume of blood transfused (P for trend<.001). Subgroup analyses confirmed a consistent trend, with the transfusion group at a higher risk for ROP across all subgroups. Inverse probability of treatment weighting and propensity score matching analyses supported the initial findings. For VPIs, RBC transfusion significantly increases the risk of ROP, and the risk increases with an increasing number of transfusions and volume of blood transfused.

A retrospective study of the incidence, patterns, and risk factors of retinopathy of prematurity in infants with birth weight &gt;1500 g in a South Indian tertiary care hospital

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to determine the incidence, patterns, and risk factors for the development of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in infants weighing &gt;1500 g at birth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective analysis was done of the ROP screening records between April 2019 and March 2022. All the infants with birth weight &gt;1500 g who underwent ROP screening were included. Data collected included demographic details, details of the risk factors (respiratory distress syndrome [RDS], hypoxia, anemia, septicemia, patent ductus arteriosus, congenital heart disease [CHD], i.e., atrial septal defects or ventricular septal defects, and multiple gestations), and ocular examination findings. Statistical analyses included calculation of mean, range, Chi-square test, and bivariate logistic regression for associations of risk factors with ROP. RESULTS: ROP was noted in 16.6% of the 336 eyes of 168 infants. The mean birth weight and mean gestational age (GA) of the infants were 1850 ± 33 g and 33.33 weeks ± 1.71 weeks, respectively. Eighteen eyes (32.1%) had Stage I, 17 eyes (30.35%) had Stage II, and 11 eyes (19.64%) had Stage III ROP in Zone II. Aggressive ROP was seen in 8 eyes (14.28%) and stage 5 ROP in two eyes (0.59%). Male gender, GA, CHD, and RDS showed a statistically significant association with the development of ROP in these infants. CONCLUSION: ROP was seen in 16.66% of our subjects. Treatment was required in 6.25% of infants. Risk factors for the development of ROP were low gestational age, male gender, the presence of RDS, and congenital heart disease.

Clinicoepidemiological Profile of Retinopathy of Prematurity.

Purpose In previously performed studies, retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) has been shown to occur postpartum. As a result, mechanical ventilation and oxygen dependence were eventually connected to the development of ROP in these preterm children, and ROP prevalence is on the rise globally. Despite various improvements in childcare, ROP still tends to arise due to various risk factors associated with the disease. So, clinically the research was performed to determine the clinical and epidemiological profile of ROP. Materials and methods A total of 268 participants were to be enrolled in the study. It was an observational, cross-sectional study carried out at Department of Ophthalmology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Burla, Sambalpur, Odisha, India. Ethical approval was provided on 30 November 2019. Results Overall 123 (46%) infants out of 268 infants developed retinopathy of prematurity. Majorly, the infants had stage 1 and stage 2 ROP. Most of the infants were male. Birth weight in ROP patients was 1000 g or less in 54% of infants, 1000-1500 g in 46% of infants and >1500 g in 33% of infants. Gestational age was found to be a predictor of retinopathy of prematurity. The adverse events that were found to be associated with retinopathy of prematurity were sepsis (53%), respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) (54.6%), intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH) (60%), anaemia (61.5%). Conclusion It has been observed that babies with higher birth weights and older gestations are also susceptible to developing ROP. Therefore, the greater birth weight newborns up to 1750 g and older gestational age babies >34 weeks should also be included in the screening criteria, especially if they have risk factors such as oxygen supplementation, sepsis, RDS, and anaemia.

Reduction of pathological retinal neovascularization, vessel obliteration, and artery tortuosity by PEDF protein in an oxygen-induced ischemic retinopathy rat model.

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a severe retinal disease in premature infants characterized by pathological neovascularization, obliteration of retinal vessels and increased vessel tortuosity. Currently, there are no completely satisfactory treatments for ROP. Pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF), a potent inhibitor of angiogenesis, appears late in gestation and its deficiency may be linked to development of ROP. This study investigates the preclinical efficacy of PEDF protein alone or in combination with VEGF antagonists for treating ROP. The safety of PEDF protein in the rat eye was assessed using functional invivo measurements and histology. The efficacy of intravitreal injections (IVI) of various treatments was evaluated in a rat oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) model using invivo imaging and flatmount analyses. No functional or histological side-effects were found in rat eyes after intravitreal PEDF protein injection. PEDF protein alone or combined with anti-VEGF drugs significantly reduced pathological neovascularization and vessel obliteration, comparable to the effects of anti-VEGF drugs alone. Regarding arterial tortuosity, treatment with a combination of PEDF, and VEGF antagonist was more effective than treatment with anti-VEGF alone. IVI of PEDF protein is safe. PEDF protein alone or combined with VEGF antagonists shows similar efficacy in reducing pathological neovascularization and vessel obliteration as anti-VEGF agents. Furthermore, only treatments involving PEDF protein, alone or with VEGF antagonists, significantly improved the quality of retinal vasculature. Thus, PEDF protein alone or combined with anti-VEGF agents presents a promising alternative to current anti-VEGF treatments for ROP.

The relationship between inflammatory markers and retinopathy of prematurity in extremely premature infants.

This study aimed to evaluate the relationships among blood parameters, clinical factors, and retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in extremely premature (EP) infants. This retrospective study included 153 EP infants who were categorized into two groups based on the presence of inflammatory diseases such as necrotizing enterocolitis, neonatal sepsis, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, severe intraventricular hemorrhage, preeclampsia, and premature rupture of membranes. Complete blood count parameters, neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), lymphocyte-monocyte ratio, platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), systemic inflammatory index, and platelet mass index were recorded during the first week and first month after birth. The study analyzed the impact of parameters obtained through blood tests during the first week and first month on the development of ROP and the requirement for treatment. In this study, 96 infants were diagnosed with inflammatory diseases. After multivariate regression analyses, the duration of mechanical ventilation (p = 0.010) was found to be the only factor that led to ROP development. Moreover, lower gestational age (GA) (p = 0.006), higher NLR (p = 0.026), and lower PLR (p = 0.019) were observed in infants requiring treatment compared to infants with spontaneous resolution of ROP in this group. 57 infants did not have inflammatory diseases. Although the duration of mechanical ventilation (p = 0.041) and low levels of platelets (PLT) (p = 0.046) measured in the first month postnatally were significantly found to be associated with ROP developement, no parameter affecting the required treatment could be determined. EP infants with longer mechanical ventilation durations and lower PLT counts are vulnerable to ROP development. GA, PLR, and NLR are predictive factors for treatment.

Cord blood transfusions in extremely low gestational age neonates to reduce severe retinopathy of prematurity: results of a prespecified interim analysis of the randomized BORN trial

BackgroundPreterm infants are at high risk for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), with potential life-long visual impairment. Low fetal hemoglobin (HbF) levels predict ROP. It is unknown if preventing the HbF decrease also reduces ROP.MethodsBORN is an ongoing multicenter double-blinded randomized controlled trial investigating whether transfusing HbF-enriched cord blood-red blood cells (CB-RBCs) instead of adult donor-RBC units (A-RBCs) reduces the incidence of severe ROP (NCT05100212). Neonates born between 24 and 27 + 6 weeks of gestation are enrolled and randomized 1:1 to receive adult donor-RBCs (A-RBCs, arm A) or allogeneic CB-RBCs (arm B) from birth to the postmenstrual age (PMA) of 31 + 6 weeks. Primary outcome is the rate of severe ROP at 40 weeks of PMA or discharge, with a sample size of 146 patients. A prespecified interim analysis was scheduled after the first 58 patients were enrolled, with the main purpose to evaluate the safety of CB-RBC transfusions.ResultsResults in the intention-to-treat and per-protocol analysis are reported. Twenty-eight patients were in arm A and 30 in arm B. Overall, 104 A-RBC units and 49 CB-RBC units were transfused, with a high rate of protocol deviations. A total of 336 adverse events were recorded, with similar incidence and severity in the two arms. By per-protocol analysis, patients receiving A-RBCs or both RBC types experienced more adverse events than non-transfused patients or those transfused exclusively with CB-RBCs, and suffered from more severe forms of bradycardia, pulmonary hypertension, and hemodynamically significant patent ductus arteriosus. Serum potassium, lactate, and pH were similar after CB-RBCs or A-RBCs. Fourteen patients died and 44 were evaluated for ROP. Ten of them developed severe ROP, with no differences between arms. At per-protocol analysis each A-RBC transfusion carried a relative risk for severe ROP of 1.66 (95% CI 1.06–2.20) in comparison with CB-RBCs. The area under the curve of HbF suggested that HbF decrement before 30 weeks PMA is critical for severe ROP development. Subsequent CB-RBC transfusions do not lessen the ROP risk.ConclusionsThe interim analysis shows that CB-RBC transfusion strategy in preterm neonates is safe and, if early adopted, might protect them from severe ROP.Trial registrationProspectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov on October 29, 2021. Identifier number NCT05100212.

Comparison of Single-Treatment Efficacy of Bevacizumab and Ranibizumab for Retinopathy of Prematurity.

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a significant cause of blindness in infants. Appropriate therapeutic intervention is essential because retinal detachment due to the progression of ROP is critical to visual function. The intravitreal injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents has been increasingly applied to inhibit the development and progression of ROP. In this study, we compared the efficacy of single intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) and ranibizumab (IVR) injections for the treatment of ROP. A total of 39 eyes in 21 patients with severe ROP and IVB (15 eyes of 8 patients) and IVR (24 eyes of 13 patients) were retrospectively reviewed. Patient background, the severity of ROP, and the percentage of cases in which ROP regressed without additional treatment were compared between the two groups. Patient background and ROP severity were not significantly different between the two groups. Recurrence was observed in one eye of one patient in the IVB group, and thirteen eyes in seven patients in the IVR group required additional laser photocoagulation, which was significantly different in the two groups (p < 0.01, Fisher's exact test). In the IVR group, two eyes of two patients underwent vitreous surgery. Compared with IVR, IVB is likely to control the severity of ROP with a single treatment.

Predictive value of serum inflammatory markers in retinopathy of prematurity

PurposeTo evaluate the relationship between the development of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR).Material and methodsThe medical records of 153 preterm infants born before the 34th week of gestation, were retrospectively reviewed. Complete blood cell (CBC) and C-reactive protein (CRP) results measured within the first 24 h of life were recorded. NLR, LMR and PLR were calculated by dividing neutrophil count by lymphocyte count, lymphocyte count by monocyte count, and platelet count by lymphocyte count, respectively. Analysis of possible risk factors related with ROP development was evaluated using logistic regression analysis. Results were compared between infants with and without ROP.ResultsA total of 153 infants, of which 64 (41.9%) with ROP and 89 (58.1%) without ROP, were included in the study. While lymphocyte count and LMR were found to be significantly lower in infants with ROP (p = 0.015 and p = 0.044), neutrophil count and NLR were found to be significantly higher (p = 0.021 and p = 0.046, respectively). No significant difference were observed in platelet and monocyte count and PLR (p = 0.808, p = 0.170 and p = 0.075, respectively). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that gestational age, birth weight and NLR were major risk factors for the development of ROP (OR:0.59; p = 0.01, OR:1.00; p = 0.02 and OR: 2.56; p = 0.02, respectively).ConclusionThis study supports that, in addition to prematurity, NLR on the first postnatal day has a significant predictive value in ROP.

Predictive Role of Fluorescein Angiography in Retinopathy of Prematurity.

Fluorescein angiography (FA) has been a pivotal tool for studying the pathophysiology of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in vivo. We examined the course of ROP using FA to assess the predictive value of angiographic features. This is an observational retrospective cohort study of eyes screened for ROP with a binocular indirect ophthalmoscope and FA. RetCam fundus imaging and video digital fluorescein angiography were performed in the neonatal intensive care unit of Santa Maria Hospital of Perugia. The masked grading of the FA images was retrospectively conducted by two ROP expert ophthalmologists. A total of 80 eyes of 40 patients were included for this study. Among the angiographic features evaluated, leakage, shunts, and tangles were predictive of the development of treatment-requiring ROP (p < 0.05). FA can add to our understanding of the evolution of vascular abnormalities in the course of ROP and can help predict which eyes will go on to treatment.

Lower Hemoglobin Levels as a Risk Factor for the Development of Retinopathy of Prematurity.

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is an important cause of visual morbidity among preterm infants. The objective of the study was to assess the relationship between the initial hematological parameters of the complete blood count (CBC) and ROP development in preterm neonates. This retrospective cohort study was conducted in a neonatal intensive care unit in Odisha. The hematological parameters of the CBC conducted within the first 48 hours of age, demographic characteristics, neonatal morbidities, and ROP screening findings of preterm neonates (gestational age <34 weeks) were analyzed. Independent risk factors associated with ROP development were identified in a multivariate logistic regression model. A total of 43 (29.1%) out of 148 neonates had any of the ROP stages (stage 1-26, 2-08, and 3-09). Birth weight (aOR 0.003; 95% CI 0.00, 0.11);hemoglobin (Hb) level (aOR 0.70; 95% CI 0.54, 0.90); presence of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) (aOR 7.61; 95% CI 1.5, 36.39); and need for packed red blood cell (PRBC) transfusion (aOR 4.26; 95% CI 1.1, 16.44) were independently associated withROP development. The odds of ROP were higher among the neonates with initial Hb 10.5-15.4 g/dL (OR (95% CI) 3.7(1.5, 8.9), p=0.003) and for neonates with Hb 15.4-17.3 g/dL (OR (95% CI)2.5(1.01, 6.16), p=0.047) in comparison to neonates with initial Hb >17.3 g/dL. Preterm neonates with a lower level of Hb during the early postnatal days are at higher risk for ROP development and need to be prioritized for screening.

Neonatal Sepsis Episodes and Retinopathy of Prematurity in Very Preterm Infants

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a major morbidity of preterm infants causing visual impairment, including blindness, for which timely treatment is vital and prevention is key. Increasing evidence suggests that exposure to neonatal sepsis contributes to ROP development. To investigate the association between neonatal sepsis and ROP in 2 large-scale cohorts of preterm infants born at less than 29 weeks' gestation. This retrospective cohort study was conducted using data from the German Neonatal Network (GNN) and Norwegian Neonatal Network (NNN). The GNN involves 68 and the NNN includes 21 level III neonatal intensive care units. Participants were infants born at a gestation of 22 weeks and 0 days to 28 weeks and 6 days and enrolled in the GNN between January 1, 2009, and December 31, 2022, and NNN between January 1, 2009, and December 31, 2018. Data were analyzed from February through September 2023. Single or multiple episodes of culture-proven sepsis. Any ROP and treatment-warranted ROP. Among 12 794 infants in the GNN (6043 female [47.2%] and 6751 male [52.8%]; mean [SD] gestational age, 26.4 [1.5] weeks) and 1844 infants in the NNN (866 female [47.0%] and 978 male [53.0%]; mean [SD] gestational age, 25.6 [1.5] weeks), the mean (SD) birth weight was 848 (229) g and 807 (215) g, respectively. Any ROP was present in 6370 infants (49.8%) in GNN and 620 infants (33.6%) in NNN, and treatment-warranted ROP was present in 840 infants (6.6%) in GNN and 140 infants (7.6%) in NNN. In both cohorts, there were increasing rates of treatment-warranted ROP with each sepsis episode (no sepsis: 572 of 10 658 infants [5.4%] in GNN and 85 of 1492 infants (5.7%) in NNN; 1 episode: 190 of 1738 infants in GNN [10.9%] and 29 of 293 infants [9.9%] in NNN; 2 episodes: 53 of 314 infants in GNN [16.9%] and 13 of 49 infants [26.5%] in NNN; 3 episodes: 25 of 84 infants [29.8%] in GNN and 3 of 10 infants [30.0%] in NNN). After adjusting for multiple confounders in the GNN dataset, the number of sepsis episodes was associated with ROP and treatment-warranted ROP compared with 0 episodes (1 episode: adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.44 [95% CI, 1.27-1.63]; P < .001 and OR, 1.60 [95% CI, 1.31-1.96]; P < .001, respectively; 2 episodes: OR, 1.81 [95% CI, 1.35-2.42]; P < .001 and OR, 2.38 [95% CI, 1.68-3.37]; P < .001, respectively; 3 episodes: OR, 4.39 [95% CI, 2.19-8.78]; P < .001 and OR, 3.88 [95% CI, 2.29-6.55]; P < .001, respectively). These associations were confirmed for any ROP by propensity score matching (for example, the aOR with propensity score matching was 1.76 [95% CI, 1.54-2.02]; P < .001 for 1 episode vs 0 episodes and 1.58 [95% CI, 1.12-2.22]; P = .007 for 3 episodes vs 0 or 1 episode). In the NNN dataset, surgical NEC was associated with treatment-warranted ROP (multivariable analysis: aOR, 3.37 [95% CI, 1.78-6.37]; P < .001). This study found that in the large-scale GNN cohort, recurrent culture-proven sepsis was associated with ROP and treatment-warranted ROP in infants born at less than 29 weeks.

Incidence, Risk Factors and Development of Retinopathy of Prematurity in Mid-Preterm and Late-Preterm Infants.

To evaluate the incidence, risk factors, and development of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in midpreterm and late-preterm infants born at 32 to 36 6/7 weeks of gestational age. The ophthalmic examination findings and risk factors of 5,477 preterm infants who underwent ophthalmological examination were evaluated retrospectively. The rates of any stage and severe ROP (requiring treatment) development and treatment options were recorded. The risk factors were analyzed by using logistic regression analysis. A total of 5,477 infants were included in the study, of whom 2,715 (49.57%) were mid-preterm and 2,762 (50.43%) were late-preterm. The rates of any stage and severe ROP were 8.2% (n = 223) and 0.6% (n = 15) in mid-preterm infants, respectively. In late-preterm infants, the rate of any stage ROP was 2.1% (n = 59), and no severe ROP was detected. There was no significant difference in mean birth weight in mid-preterm infants between infants with any stage ROP and severe ROP (P = .104). Of the 15 infants (0.3%) who required treatment, 14 (0.2%) infants had laser photocoagulation, 1 (0.01%) had intravitreal bevacizumab, and 2 (0.03%) had additional therapy (laser photocoagulation and intravitreal bevacizumab). In logistic regression analysis, a significant association was found between treatment requirement and transport from an external center (P < .001, ß = 0.04). Although ROP development rates decrease as birth weight and gestational age increase, late-preterm infants should be examined for ROP at least once, especially those born in low-income countries because ROP development can still be observed. [J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus. 20XX;X(X):XX-XX.].

Retinopathy of Prematurity in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at King Fahd University Hospital, Eastern Province: Prevalence, Risk Factors, and pattern of severity Seven years’ experience.

Background Premature newborns are susceptible to retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), a vasoproliferative disease of the developing retinal vessels, which is a major cause of potentially avoidable blindness. Due to geographical variations in newborn care, geographic variations in the epidemiology of ROP have been observed internationally during the last several decades. There was a correlation between the severity of the condition and the number of prenatal, postnatal, and other risk factors. This study aimed to examine the incidence and risk factors associated with retinopathy of prematurity in preterm infants. Methods A retrospective review of preterm newborns evaluated for retinopathy of prematurity between January 2016 and December 2022 was carried out at King Fahd Hospital of the University (KFHU), Khobar, Saudi Arabia. Infants who fulfilled the screening criteria (GA &lt; 34 or Birth Weight (WT) ≤ 1500 g) underwent the screening test, and the International Classification of Retinopathy of Prematurity was used to classify retinopathy of prematurity. Risk factors and demographic information regarding ROP were assessed. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS (version 20) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Statistical significance was set at p &lt; 0.05. Results Among the 200 preterm neonates that were evaluated and admitted to neonatal critical care units, 37% exhibited premature retinopathy, with 46.7% of those cases being in stage 1. The development of ROP was linked to gestational age, length of mechanical ventilation, septicemia, intraventricular hemorrhage, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, respiratory distress syndrome, and septicemia, according to univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Conclusion The incidence of total retinopathy in premature infants in this population was 37%. Evaluating these risk factors during the screening of high-risk premature infants will help determine the appropriate timing of examinations and treatment.

Predictive role of systemic immune-inflammation index and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio values in infants with retinopathy of prematurity

PurposeTo search the relationship between serum neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), and systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) values with the development of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and the requirement for laser treatment.MethodsThis retrospective cohort study was carried out with 195 preterm infants between 2012 and 2023. The NLR, PLR, LMR, and SII values were calculated on both the first day and at the end of the first month after birth. The association between development of ROP and other risk factors were analyzed using univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis.ResultsOf patients, 92 infants were diagnosed with ROP. Laser treatment was administered to 36 infants. The postnatal first-day NLR and SII values were higher in infants with ROP than in infants without ROP (p < 0.001 for both). Postnatal first-month NLR, LMR, and SII values were higher in infants with ROP (p < 0.001, p = 0.007, and p < 0.001, respectively). In multivariate analyses, postnatal first-day NLR and first-month LMR values were regarded as independent risk factors for the development of ROP (OR:8.867 and 1.286, p = 0.002 and p = 0.009, respectively). In multivariate analyses performed for laser treatment requirement, postnatal first-month PLR and SII values were determined as independent risk factors (OR:0.951 and 1.011, respectively, p = 0.004 for both).ConclusionsPostnatal first-day NLR and first-month LMR values were determined as independent risk factors for the development of ROP. For the requirement of laser treatment, the postnatal first-month PLR and SII values were determined as independent risk factors.

Retinopathy of prematurity in triplets - Indian twin city ROP study report number 12.

To evaluate the incidence and severity of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) amongst surviving triplets. Records of preterm babies born to mothers with triplet pregnancies were retrieved from our Indian twin city ROP study database between 1 Jan 2000 and 31 Dec 2020 and analyzed. 253 surviving triplet babies born to 108 mothers were evaluated. 48 out of 108 (44%) mothers received treatment for infertility. Data was available and analyzed for 242 babies (484 eyes). Mean gestational age was 31.76 ± 3.74 weeks (26- 38 weeks). The mean birth weight was 1.44 ± 0.37 kg (0.57-2.76 kg). At the first screening, incomplete vascularization was noted in 67% (131 babies;322 eyes) of which ROP was diagnosed in 14% (28 babies; 56 eyes). Among them, only 18 babies (53%) were the smallest birth weight babies in each of the triplet sets. Treatment with laser or bevacizumab was performed in 14 babies (5.8%), one eye of one baby additionally needed vitreoretinal surgical intervention. Good anatomical outcomes in terms of regression of ROP without sequelae were achieved in all babies. The present study reveals low incidence and favorable outcomes of ROP in triplet pregnancies in a large cohort of babies from a middle-income country. Our cohort did not show any difference in the treatment-requiring ROP among the larger or smaller birth weight babies of the same gestational age. In multiple pregnancies, gestational age remains a critical factor for ROP development; however, this does not necessitate modifying screening or treatment criteria in such triplet pregnancies.

A Study of the Demographic Profile, Screening, and Management of Patients Visiting a Retinopathy of Prematurity Clinic.

Background and objective Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a retinal vasoproliferative disease affecting premature infants. Despite improvements in neonatal care and management, ROP still remains a major cause of childhood blindness worldwide. Studying the demographic profile and screening is essential to develop predictive models, to gain insights into the cause of retinal vascular diseases and diseases of prematurity, and to determine the future management and research in ROP. The objective of the present study was to estimate the incidence of ROP, to identify the risk factors that predispose to ROP, and to assess the outcome of these cases. Hence, this study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital in Maharashtra. Method A prospective, observational study was conducted from 10 August 2022 to 10 October 2022.Infants withgestational ages < 34 weeks, birth weights< 2000 g, infants who received supplemental oxygen therapy, or patients who required NICU stay were screenedfor ROP. Demographic details were recorded to assess the risk factors and treatment was given according to the severity of ROP grade. Result A total of 160 eyes of80 infants were screened and analysed. The overall incidence of "any ROP" was19 patients (38 eyes), i.e., 24%. Out of 80 patients, six were of 28 weeks gestational age, of whomfour (67%) were positive for ROP. The mean birth weight of infants with ROP was 1331.58 ± 238.532 g (p < 0.0001). ROP stage 1 was seen in five patients (26.32%), stage 2 in 10 patients (52.63%), and stage 3 in four patients (21.0%), with no subjects in stages 4 & 5. Out of 19 patients, six (32%) had type 1 ROP, and 13 (68%) had type 2 ROP.Out of 19cases, 13 (68%) received follow-upcare based on the severity of their disease, and six (32%) were treated with panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) laser. Conclusion Incidence of any ROP was 24%. Prematurity, low birth weight, and oxygen therapy remain the most significant risk factors associated with the development of ROP. Early referral, diagnosis, and timely intervention will play a monumental role in improving the prognosis of this potentially blinding disease.

The impact of intermittent hypoxemia on type 1 retinopathy of prematurity in preterm infants.

Intermittent hypoxemia (IH) may influence retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) development in preterm infants, however, previous studies had mixed results. This study tests the hypothesis that increased IH is associated with Type 1 ROP; a stage beyond which treatment is indicated. IH was quantified by continuously monitoring oxygen saturation (SpO2) using high-resolution pulse oximeters during the first 10 weeks of life. Statistical analyses assessed the relationship and predictive ability of weekly and cumulative IH for Type 1 ROP development. Most analyses showed no association between IH and Type 1 ROP adjusting for gestational age (GA) and birth weight (BW). However, cumulative IH of longer duration during weeks 5-10, 6-10, and 7-10 were significantly associated with Type 1 ROP adjusting for GA and BW, e.g., the adjusted odds ratio of Type 1 ROP was 2.01 (p = 0.03) for every 3.8 seconds increase in IH duration from week 6-10. IH did not provide statistically significant added predictive ability above GA and BW. For most analyses there was no significant association between IH and Type 1 ROP adjusting for GA and BW. However, infants with longer IH duration during the second month of life had higher risk for Type 1 ROP. The relationship and predictive ability of intermittent hypoxemia (IH) on retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is controversial. This study shows no significant association between IH events and Type 1 ROP after adjusting for gestational age (GA) and birth weight (BW), except for cumulative IH of longer duration in the second month of life. In this cohort, IH does not provide a statistically significant improvement in ROP prediction over GA and BW. This study is the first to assess the cumulative impact of IH measures on Type 1 ROP. Interventions for reducing IH duration during critical postnatal periods may improve ROP outcomes.

Critical period of oxygen supplementation and invasive ventilation: implications for severe retinopathy of prematurity

BackgroundSeveral studies have identified graded oxygen saturation targets to prevent retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), a serious complication in preterm infants. We aimed to analyze the critical period of oxygen supplementation and/or invasive ventilation associated with severe ROP.MethodsThis retrospective case-control study included neonates with a gestational age (GA) < 29 weeks. Participants were divided into two groups: treated retinopathy and untreated/no retinopathy. Time-weighted average FiO2 (TWAFiO2) and weekly invasive ventilation were compared between groups by postnatal age (PNA) and postmenstrual age (PMA). The association of treated retinopathy with TWAFiO2 and invasive ventilation was analyzed.ResultsData from 287 neonates were analyzed; 98 were treated for ROP and had lower GAs (25.5 vs. 27.4 weeks, p < 0.01) and lower birthweights (747.6 vs. 1014 g, p < 0.001) than those with untreated/no ROP. TWAFiO2 was higher from PMA 26–34 weeks, except for PMA 31 weeks in treated ROP, and higher in the first nine weeks of life in treated ROP. On multiple logistic regression, TWAFiO2 and invasive ventilation were associated with ROP treatment during the first seven weeks PNA. Invasive ventilation was associated with ROP treatment from PMA 26–31 weeks; no association was found for TWAFiO2 and PMA.ConclusionsAmount of oxygen supplementation and/or invasive ventilation during the first 7 weeks of life or up to 31 weeks PMA was associated with development of severe ROP. This period might be candidate timing for strict oxygen supplementation strategies in preterm infants, while concerns of mortality with low oxygen supplementation should be further explored.