Retinopathy of prematurity risk prediction for infants with birth weight less than 1251 grams.

OBJECTIVE

To predict retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) exam findings among infants with birth weight <1251 g from 32-40 weeks postmenstrual age (PMA).

STUDY

DESIGN

Secondary analysis of 3714 eye exams from 1239 infants.

RESULTS

The likelihood of developing type 1 ROP by 40 weeks PMA varied by gestational age (GA) (P < .001), from 33% for ≤25 weeks, 10% for 26 or 27 weeks, 4% for 28 or 29 weeks, and none for ≥30 weeks. By 40 weeks PMA, 51% with GA ≤27 weeks still needed subsequent exams. Previous exam findings, GA, and PMA were predictive of the development of type 1 ROP (area under the curve, 0.78) or mature retina (area under the curve, 0.85).

CONCLUSIONS

This analysis provides the opportunity for development of an ROP approach to estimate resource needs in the neonatal intensive care unit and to facilitate communication with families when planning discharge or transfer.