APGAR AS A RISK FACTOR FOR RETINOPATHY OF PREMATURITY (ROP)

Abstract

Background:

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a vasoproliferative disorder affecting developing retinal vessels in preterm infants, ranging from mild, non–vision-threatening sequelae to bilateral retinal detachment and blindness. The APGAR score, assessed at 1 and 5 minutes after birth, is a widely used index of neonatal well-being and response to resuscitation. While low birth weight and prematurity are established risk factors for ROP, the association between APGAR scores and ROP risk requires further exploration.

Methods

A total of 200 preterm infants (<36 weeks gestation, <1800 g birth weight) were evaluated. APGAR scores were recorded at 1 and 5 minutes, and fundus examination was performed using an indirect ophthalmoscope to screen for ROP.

Results

All neonates had APGAR scores ≥3 at 1 minute. Infants who developed ROP demonstrated significantly lower APGAR scores at both 1 and 5 minutes compared with those without ROP (P <0.0001).

Conclusion

Low APGAR scores at 1 and 5 minutes are significantly associated with the development of ROP in preterm infants. Routine documentation of APGAR scores and targeted screening of neonates with persistently low scores may facilitate early detection and timely intervention.