Clinical Characteristics of Preterm Neonates with Aggressive Posterior Retinopathy of Prematurity

PURPOSE: We aimed to identify the risk factors that may predispose preterm neonates to develop aggressive posterior retinopathy of prematurity (APROP). METHODS: This retrospective case control study included 16 infants with APROP in zone 1 or posterior zone 2. Thirty-four gestational age and birth weight-matched controls with stage 2 or less ROP were included. We reviewed medical records on infant birth and postnatal characteristics. RESULTS: Patients who developed APROP had a significantly longer duration of caffeine therapy, were significantly more likely to be small for gestational age (SGA), and were more likely to have a positive blood culture than patients who developed less severe ROP. Patients with APROP who required retreatment had received inotropes for a longer duration of time, had received more plasma transfusions, were more likely to have IVH, and had a greater decrease in the serum hemoglobin during hospitalization. CONCLUSION: Being SGA, receiving caffeine for a longer duration, and having culture-proven sepsis were associated with APROP. IVH, a low serum hemoglobin, the need for more plasma transfusions, and a longer duration of inotropes were associated with APROP which required retreatment.