The Accuracy of Digital Imaging in Diagnosis of Retinopathy of Prematurity in Iran: A Pilot Study

PURPOSE: To evaluate sensitivity and specificity of digital retinal image reading in the diagnosis of referral-warranted retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). METHODS: Infants referred to the ROP clinic underwent fundus examination through indirect ophthalmoscopy. Fundus photographs were acquired using RetCam (shuttle 2; Clarity medical systems, Pleasanton, CA, USA). Four retinal specialists who were blind to patients’ information reviewed the RetCam fundus photographs. By comparing the results of photographs’ readings with that of indirect ophthalmoscopy as the gold standard, the sensitivity and specificity of telescreening was determined. RESULTS: A total of 147 treatment-naïve patients met the inclusion criteria and were enrolled in the study. Mean gestational age (GA) was 28.6 ± 2.0 weeks. Digital retinal imaging had sensitivity of 85% and specificity of 35% in detecting referral-warranted ROP in our study. Positive predictive value of digital photography was 80%, and negative predictive value was 43%. CONCLUSION: Digital photography for diagnosis of ROP may show good potential as a screening modality in developing countries. It can facilitate early diagnosis, prevent unnecessary referrals, and be implemented for investigational purpose. However, the overall study result did not provide evidence to propose digital photography as a substitute for indirect ophthalmoscopy in the diagnosis of ROP.