[The retinal fold in premature infants]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Neonatal Medicine
• Pediatric Surgery

Background:

• Retinal folds are increasingly observed in premature infants with retrolental fibroplasia.
• Distinguishing between congenital and acquired retinal folds is crucial for appropriate management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the differences between retinal folds in premature infants with retrolental fibroplasia and congenital retinal folds.
• To analyze the clinical and morphoscopic characteristics of these retinal conditions.

Main Methods:

• A 3-year survey was conducted on 27 children.
• Children were divided into two groups: premature infants with retrolental fibroplasia and full-term infants with congenital retinal folds.
• Clinical and morphoscopic examinations were performed.

Main Results:

• Clinical presentation of the two types of retinal folds showed minimal differences.
• Morphoscopic examination revealed distinct characteristics between the two groups.
• Standard therapies for complications like strabismus, cataract, and retinal detachment were administered.

Conclusions:

• A malformative retinal fold can occur in full-term infants.
• Retinal folds can also be acquired in premature infants due to prematurity and excessive oxygen exposure.
• These acquired folds may present similarly to congenital malformations.