Pilot study on in vivo evaluation of retinal vascular maturity in newborn infants in the context of retinopathy of prematurity.

PURPOSE: To study the extent of retinal vascularization at birth.

DESIGN

Prospective masked observational case series.

METHODS

One hundred ten neonates, at different weeks of gestation and birth weights (BWs), had dilated fundus evaluation for zone of retinal vascularization by a masked observer. Maternal and neonatal factors were ascertained by a masked pediatrician.

RESULTS

Irrespective of risk factors, eight of nine babies who were born at <30 weeks of gestation and at <1500 g BW had immature retina. Those babies who were born at >34 weeks of gestational age and at >1700 g BW had mature retina. Babies who were born between 31 to 34 weeks of gestation and at 1501 to 1700 g BW had variable extent of retinal vascularization at birth. Vascularization was affected by maternal anemia and the need for oxygen for >48 hours.

CONCLUSION

There exists considerable variability in the extent of retinal vascularization in infants who are born between 31 to 34 weeks of gestation. Modifiable maternal and fetal factors could influence extent of this vascularization birth.