EC Ophthalmology

Introduction: Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a significant cause of preventable childhood blindness, primarily affecting preterm infants. Its pathogenesis involves two phases: vaso-obliteration followed by vasoproliferation. Various clinical factors, such as gestational age, oxygen therapy, and platelet count, have been investigated to understand their role in the development and progression of ROP. Early detection and risk stratification are crucial for timely intervention and minimizing the need for invasive treatments.

Methodology: This prospective, cross-sectional study included 92 preterm infants with a gestational age of less than 37 weeks. The infants were monitored for ROP, and platelet counts were measured at 72 hours, 2 weeks, 4 weeks, and 6 weeks. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22, with statistical significance set at a p-value of < 0.05.

Results: The study found significantly higher platelet counts in infants with ROP at all time points (72 hours to 6 weeks) compared to those without ROP, with p-values consistently < 0.001. Additionally, male infants had a higher prevalence of ROP, and no significant difference in mean gestational age was observed between the groups. Our findings suggest that lower platelet counts at 72 hours may be associated with more severe ROP.

 Keywords: Oxygen Exposure; Retinopathy of Prematurity; Thrombocytopenia; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors

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