Ocular Biometric and Optical Coherence Tomography Parameters in Former Preterm Children: A Cohort Study

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pediatric Ophthalmology
• Retinopathy of Prematurity Research

Background:

• Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a significant cause of visual impairment in premature infants.
• Understanding the long-term ocular consequences of ROP is crucial for monitoring and intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare ocular biometric and optical coherence tomography (OCT) parameters in preterm children (4-8 years) with and without a history of ROP.
• To evaluate refractive status and correlate these findings with age- and gender-matched full-term children.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective comparative cohort study involving four groups: treated ROP, regressed ROP, preterm without ROP, and full-term controls.
• Measurements included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), refractive error (spherical equivalent), axial length, corneal curvature, and central macular thickness via OCT.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in BCVA or refractive error were found between groups.
• Children with ROP history showed significantly shorter axial lengths and steeper corneas compared to controls.
• Central macular thickness was significantly greater in both ROP groups and preterm children without ROP compared to full-term children.

Conclusions:

• History of ROP is associated with specific ocular biometric changes, including shorter axial length and steeper cornea.
• Increased macular thickness in ROP groups correlates with lower gestational age.
• These findings highlight the persistent ocular structural alterations in children with a history of ROP.