Abstract:Background: Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) is a significant cause of childhood blindness, especially among premature infants with low birth weight. This study investigates the risk factors associated with ROP in premature infants admitted to a tertiary care hospital in Uttar Pradesh, India, aiming to inform clinical practices for reducing its incidence.
Method: This prospective observational study included preterm infants admitted to the NICU between October 2023 and December 2023. Infants with a gestational age of less than 31 weeks and a birth weight of less than 2000 grams were included. Data collection encompassed maternal and neonatal demographics, perinatal factors, and clinical parameters. Ophthalmologic examinations were performed regularly, and ROP was classified based on the International Committee for Classification of ROP criteria.
Result: Of the 137 preterm infants examined, 27 (19.7%) developed ROP. Significant risk factors included gestational age (P = 0.000), sepsis (P = 0.004), oxygen therapy (P = 0.018), and frequency of blood transfusions (P = 0.030). Logistic regression analysis confirmed these factors as significant predictors of ROP. Among the affected neonates, 21 (77.8%) experienced spontaneous regression, while 6 (22.2%) required laser intervention.
Conclusion: Gestational age, sepsis, oxygen therapy, and blood transfusions are significant risk factors for ROP. Early identification and management of these factors are crucial in preventing severe ROP and reducing the need for medical interventions.
