Retinopathy of Prematurity in Eight Portuguese Neonatal Intensive Care Units: Incidence, Risk Factors, and Progression—A Prospective Multicenter Study

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a retinal neovascular disease affecting preterm infants. Identifying risk factors for its development and progression is critical for effective screening and prevention. This study aimed to analyze the incidence of ROP and identify key risk factors for its development and progression. Methods: We conducted a prospective, observational cohort study on 455 neonates (gestational age [GA] 2) in the second week, and surfactant use remained significantly associated with ROP development, while early and late sepsis, maternal chronic hypertension, and delayed enteral nutrition were associated with progression to ROP requiring treatment. Conclusions: These findings underscore the importance of addressing low GAs and adult RBC transfusions in ROP risk management and suggest that maximum FiO2, platelet transfusions, and sepsis also play crucial roles. Larger studies are needed to validate these results and explore preventive interventions, particularly regarding the impact of multiple adult RBC transfusions on fetal hemoglobin percentages.

Keywords

• retinopathy of prematurity
• preterm infant
• premature birth
• risk factor
• red blood cell transfusions
• screening