Ali AA, et al. – This paper explored the characteristics and risk factors of neonates who developed retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Investigations represented that the risks for retinopathy of prematurity were wide–ranging and included gestational age and weight, medical conditions and treatment.

Methods

• This study consisted of 108 preterm neonates who were screened for ROP after being admitted to the two NICUs run by Cairo University Hospital from June 2014 to May 2015. 
• With the aid of digital fundus photography, patients were examined.
• Indirect ophthalmoscopy was performed if ROP was detected.

Results

• In 75 patients, ROP occurred.
• Findings suggested that late–onset sepsis, ventilation, and hypercapnia were independently associated with ROP.
• Patients who developed severe treatable ROP had a younger gestational age than patients who did not develop ROP or developed mild or moderate ROP (29 weeks, range 27–33 weeks versus 32 weeks, range 28–36 weeks, p=0.002) and a lower birth weight (1,200g, range 980–1,590g versus 1,460g, range 770–2,475g, p=0.029).
• The risk factors associated with severe treatable ROP included the duration of admission, the duration of incubator oxygen, late–onset sepsis, intraventricular haemorrhage, total parenteral nutrition and the duration of caffeine citrate therapy.