Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 7, 2026
Quantitative Fundus Autofluorescence for the Evaluation of Retinal Diseases
Published on: March 11, 2016
[Survey on retrolental fibroplasia in France]
Insights
Retrolental fibroplasia, a disease affecting premature infants, occurred more frequently in northern France. Immature infants are more susceptible, with oxygen identified as a key contributing factor.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neonatology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Retrolental fibroplasia (RLF) is a significant cause of visual impairment in premature infants.
- Historical data suggests geographical variations in RLF incidence.
- The role of oxygen therapy in RLF pathogenesis has been long-suspected.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the incidence of retrolental fibroplasia in different regions of France.
- To investigate the relationship between infant immaturity and RLF susceptibility.
- To identify potential etiological factors contributing to RLF.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case review of RLF diagnoses in southern and northern France.
- Data collection spanned from 1964 to 1977.
- Correlation analysis between infant gestational age and disease occurrence.
Main Results:
- 20 cases of RLF were recorded in southern France (1964-1976).
- 38 cases of RLF were recorded in northern France (1970-1977).
- Infant immaturity was strongly associated with increased RLF risk.
Conclusions:
- RLF incidence varied geographically within France.
- Prematurity is a critical risk factor for developing RLF.
- While oxygen is a primary factor, other etiological elements likely contribute to RLF.
Abstract:
From 1964 to 1976, 20 cases of retrolental fibroplasia were recorded in the south of France while 38 cases were recorded in the north from 1970 to 1977. The more children are immature, the more they are liable to suffer from this disease. Etiological factors are apparently not limited to oxygen, which however plays the most important part in the process.
