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[Pattern of survival and sequelae in very low birth weight infants]
J Figueras Aloy1, F Botet Mussons, R Jiménez González
1Departamento de Pediatría, Hospital Clínico y Facultad de Medicina de Barcelona.
Insights
Very low birth weight (VLBW) newborns weighing under 1,000g face higher risks of motor impairment, cognitive deficits, and neurosensory issues. Improved survival rates were observed in later years, but significant sequelae persist, especially in the lowest weight group.
Area of Science:
- Neonatalogy
- Pediatric Neurology
- Developmental Pediatrics
Context:
- The study examines outcomes for very low birth weight (VLBW) newborns.
- Compares two distinct birth weight categories (<1,000g vs. 1,000-1,499g).
- Analyzes data from two time periods (1980-84 vs. 1985-88) to assess trends.
Purpose:
- To report on the survival rates and long-term sequelae of VLBW infants.
- To identify risk factors and specific morbidities associated with VLBW.
- To evaluate changes in outcomes over time.
Summary:
- A total of 205 VLBW infants were admitted; 74 died. Morbidity and sequelae were assessed in 72 infants with a minimum 12-month corrected age follow-up.
- Infants <1,000g exhibited significantly higher rates of motor impairment (45.5%), cognitive deficiency (55.5%), myopia (27.3%), and neurosensory deafness (27.3%).
- Survival improved in the 1985-88 period (77.9%). However, 36.4% of infants <1,000g experienced major sequelae, compared to 8.2% in the higher weight group. Growth delay correlated with neurological sequelae.
Impact:
- Highlights the critical impact of birth weight on neonatal outcomes and long-term development.
- Underscores the need for specialized care and targeted interventions for extremely low birth weight infants.
- Provides data for improving clinical management and follow-up protocols for VLBW survivors.
Abstract:
The survival and sequelae of the very low birth weight (VLBW) newborns are reported. Two time-periods have been compared (1980-84 vs 1985-88) as well as two weight groups. (Lower than 1,000 vs 1,000-1,499). A total number of 205 VLBW were admitted, and 74 died. Only 72 were used to study morbidity and sequelae with a minimum follow-up of 12 months after correcting age. Those with a weight lower than 1,000 g have a greater motor impairment, (45.5 vs 16.4%), cognitive deficiency (55.5 vs 14.8%), myopia (27.3 vs 3.3%), neurosensorial deafness (27.3 vs 0%), and overall sequelae. During the period 1985-88, survival was 77.9% of the VLBW have any sequelae (12.5% major sequelae and 15.3% minor sequelae). A 36.4% of the newborns with a weight under 1,000 g have major sequelae comparing with the 8.2% in the others. Growth delay is closely related to neurologic sequelae.