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Regressed retinopathy of prematurity and its sequelae in children aged 5-10 years
J E Gallo1, G Holmström, U Kugelberg
1Department of Ophthalmology, Karolinska Institute (Huddinge University Hospital), Sweden.
Insights
Regressed retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) affects premature infants, with nearly half showing signs of regression. Severe ROP sequelae, including vision loss and myopia, were observed in a significant portion of these infants.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neonatology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a significant concern in premature infants.
- Understanding the long-term outcomes and sequelae of regressed ROP is crucial for clinical management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of regressed retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and its sequelae.
- To identify risk factors associated with severe ROP and its ocular abnormalities in premature infants.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of premature infants (birth weight <1501 g and/or gestational age <33 weeks) in Stockholm county (1976-1981).
- Ophthalmic examinations and record reviews were conducted to assess fundus information.
- Data analysis focused on the frequency of regressed ROP, severity of disease, and associated visual impairments.
Main Results:
- Out of 528 premature infants, 134 (25.4%) required ophthalmic care; 105 had reliable fundus information.
- The frequency of regressed ROP was 45.5%.
- Severe forms (vitreoretinal scarring, retinal traction) occurred in 9.7%, moderate forms (pigmentary changes) in 35.8%.
- Common sequelae included reduced visual acuity and myopia.
- Infants with birth weight <1000 g and gestational age <30 weeks had the highest rates of regressed ROP (68.5% and 61.9%) and ocular abnormalities.
Conclusions:
- Regressed retinopathy of prematurity is a common finding with significant potential for long-term visual impairment.
- Extremely premature infants (low birth weight and gestational age) are at the highest risk for developing ROP and its complications.
- Early detection and monitoring are essential for managing ROP sequelae in high-risk premature infants.
Abstract:
Regressed retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and its sequelae were studied in children born prematurely (less than 1501 g birth weight and/or less than 33 weeks gestational age) in Stockholm county during 1976-81. Through various searches of the records at the different eye departments and other sources in Stockholm county we found that 134 out of a total of 528 premature babies (25.4%) had needed ophthalmic care for different reasons. They were re-examined and reliable information on the fundus could be obtained for 105 of them. The frequency of regressed ROP was 45.5%. Severe forms with vitreoretinal scarring and retinal traction were seen in 9.7% of cases and moderate forms with pigmentary changes and/or vitreoretinal interphase changes in 35.8%. The sequelae of regressed ROP were mainly reduction of visual acuity and myopia. Children with a birth weight below 1000 g and a gestational age less than 30 weeks presented the highest rate of regressed ROP (68.5% and 61.9%) and ocular abnormalities.