Correlation of central visual function and ROP risk factors in prematures with and without acute ROP at the age of...

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Developmental Pediatrics
• Visual Neuroscience

Background:

• Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a leading cause of visual impairment in premature infants.
• Long-term visual outcomes in school-aged children previously affected by ROP require further characterization.
• Understanding the impact of prematurity and ROP on visual function is crucial for early intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To correlate light increment sensitivity (LIS) and visual acuity (VA) with birth weight (BW), gestational age (GA), and stage of ROP (STG) in school-aged children.
• To investigate the relationship between prematurity-related factors and visual function.
• To evaluate LIS as a potential measure of visual function in this population.

Main Methods:

• 180 children (150 former prematures, 30 term-born controls) aged 6-13 years were assessed.
• Visual acuity (VA) was measured using Early Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Study letters.
• Light increment sensitivity (LIS) was measured at central (0°) and pericentral (2.8°, 8°) visual fields using a microperimeter.

Main Results:

• Central and pericentral LIS and VA were significantly lower in former premature children compared to controls, except for specific birth weight and gestational age subgroups.
• No significant differences in LIS at 8° were found across groups.
• No individual correlation was observed between LIS and VA.

Conclusions:

• Low birth weight, gestational age, and increasing ROP severity are associated with decreased central visual function.
• LIS measurement provides additional information on foveal function and is a unique parameter for assessing parafoveal function.
• LIS assessment may enhance the understanding of visual deficits in children with a history of prematurity and ROP.