Abstract:

Purpose: We aimed to evaluate the possible risk factors for the development of retinopathy of prematurity(ROP) Patients and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted between January 2012- and May 2013 for premature infants aged 34 weeks or younger who were screened for premature retinopathy. Fifty nine infants were included into the study. Birth weight, gestational age and other risk factors were evaluated.. Results: Birth weights were between 750 and 3590g (mean 1960g) gestational ages between 24 and 34weeks (mean 31.9w). ROP with various stages was observed in 7 (%11.8) patients. Birth weight and gestational age were found to be inversely related to the presence of ROP. Continuous positive airway pressure, blood transfusions were directly related to the development of ROP . Conclusion: Increased survival rate of low gestational age and low birth weights infants with better standards in neonatal intensive care units, the incidence of ROP. Efficient screening and treatment must be used to prevent the permanent visual loss associated with ROP

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