PREDICTIVE FACTORS FOR SPONTANEOUS REGRESSION OF RETINOPATHY OF PREMATURITY IN A TERTIARY CARE INSTITUTE IN CENTRAL INDIA

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study is to identify the factors affecting spontaneous regression of Retinopathy of prematurity. Methods and Material: All the neonates with gestational age of <37 weeks and/or <2kgs birth weight were screened and demographic data and data regarding the risk factors were noted at the start of study from their birth cards and medical cards they carried with them and was noted in a proforma. In those neonates in whom the Retinopathy of Prematurity presented or progressed to type 1 ROP were treated. Rest of them were followed as per ICROP (2005) guidelines till complete vascularisation. Risk factors were compared between the two groups. The Statistical analysis was performed by SPSS 23.0 version. In the study 426 neonates were screened of them 183 eyes of 94 n Results: eonates had ROP. Sixty three neonates had spontaneous regression and 31 were treated as per ETROP guidelines. Mean gestational age in spontaneous regression group was 32.24±2.14 weeks, and that of treatment group was 29.9 ±2.44 weeks. This difference was statistically significant (P<0.001). Mean birth weight in spontaneous regression group was 1449.84±288 grams, and that of treatment group was 1309.93 ±291.06 grams. This difference was statistically significant (P=0.023). Oxygenation and NICU hospitalisation <1 week, anemia and blood transfusion, lesser weight gain in the initial 6 weeks were found to significantly affect spontaneous regression of ROP (P<0.005). Higher gestational age, Oxygenation and NICU hospitalisation <1week were found to independently influence spontaneous regression of ROP. Conclusions: The gestational age of infant is an important predicting factor in spontaneous regression of ROP. Longer duration of oxygenation and NICU hospitalisation are important factors affecting spontaneous regression of ROP inversely.