Retinopathy of prematurity in extremely premature infants

Introduction The incidence and severity of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in extremely premature infants have not been reported since publication of the Early Treatment of ROP study results. The survival rate of these infants continues to increase. We sought to determine the characteristics of ROP in a group of surviving infants Methods Retrospective review of infants born prior to 27 weeks EGA between January 2003 and July 2007 at a level-3 nursery at a regional academic medical center. Results A total of 231 medical records were reviewed and found to have analyzable data. Of 79 infants Conclusions Extremely premature infants are more likely to develop ROP and type 1 ROP, but the incidence may be lower than previously reported. Birth weight may not influence the incidence of type 1 ROP in this group of infants. Type 1 ROP does not develop at an earlier postmenstrual age in the extremely premature infant.