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Controlled study of ocular morbidity in school children born preterm
1Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast.
Insights
Children who were of very low birth weight (VLBW) have higher rates of visual problems, including strabismus and retinopathy of prematurity, compared to normal birth weight (NBW) children. Regular eye assessments are recommended for VLBW infants.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatrics
- Neonatology
Background:
- Very low birth weight (VLBW) infants face increased risks for developmental issues.
- Ocular health is a critical component of overall development in VLBW children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess visual acuity and identify ocular abnormalities in VLBW children at approximately 9 years of age.
- To compare the visual outcomes of VLBW children with those of normal birth weight (NBW) controls.
Main Methods:
- A cohort study examining 200 VLBW children and 193 NBW controls at around 9 years of age.
- Assessment of binocular visual acuity, refractive errors, and specific ocular conditions such as strabismus, retinopathy of prematurity, and optic atrophy.
Main Results:
- VLBW children had significantly higher visual morbidity (89.5% vs 97.9% with 6/6 or better acuity).
- Prevalence of strabismus (19%), cicatricial retinopathy of prematurity (6.5%), and optic atrophy (3%) was higher in the VLBW group.
- VLBW children exhibited increased myopia, and optic atrophy was linked to cerebral dysfunction.
Conclusions:
- VLBW children experience a higher burden of visual impairments compared to NBW peers.
- Ocular abnormalities in VLBW children warrant regular and thorough screening.
- Early identification and management of visual issues are crucial for the long-term health of VLBW individuals.
Abstract:
Two hundred children who were of very low birth weight (VLBW) (1500 g or less) and 193 controls who were of normal birth weight (NBW) were examined at approximately 9 years of age. Binocular visual acuity of 6/6 or better was noted in 178 (89.5%) VLBW children and 189 (97.9%) NBW children. Visual morbidity was significantly higher among VLBW children. Strabismus was present in 38 (19%), cicatricial retinopathy of prematurity in 13 (6.5%), and optic atrophy in six (3%) children in this group. Children who were VLBW were also more myopic than the NBW controls. Optic atrophy was frequently associated with cerebral dysfunction. Regular assessments to identify ocular abnormalities in children who were VLBW are recommended.