Growth and neurodevelopmental status in patients with retinopathy of prematurity treated with intravitreal bevacizumab: a case–control study

BACKGROUND: The current study aimed to evaluate growth and neurodevelopmental status in patients with retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) treated with intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB). METHODS: This historical cohort study was conducted on neonates with ROP who were treated with IVB and age and birth weight-matched controls who did not need IVB. Apgar score less than five, history of blood transfusion and history of infectious diseases were among exclusion criteria. Indirect ophthalmoscopic examinations were performed till complete retinal vascularization. Growth and neurodevelopmental status were evaluated by Age and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) at the ages of 6, 12, and 18 months. Developmental milestones were assessed in five areas (gross motor, fine motor, personal-social status, problem-solving, and relationship) and overall issues. RESULTS: A total of 34 cases and 36 controls were included in the present study. Birth weight and corrected gestational age were not statistically different between the groups. In a follow-up period of 18 months, bevacizumab was effective as a primary treatment in the treatment of severe cases of ROP. There was no significant difference between the two groups regarding the five areas and overall issues in follow-up intervals (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The obtained results did not show any growth and neurodevelopmental differences between treatment-naïve infants and those receiving IVB for the treatment of ROP.