GESTATIONAL TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS AND ITS INFLUENCE ON RETINOPATHY OF PREMATURITY – A RETROSPECTIVE CLINICAL STUDY.

Abstract

Introduction: Gestational Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a growing concern during pregnancy, characterized by elevated blood sugar levels. Retinopathy of prematurity is a retinal disorder that affects preterm infants and is linked to abnormal retinal blood vessel growth. Although ROP is mainly associated with prematurity, studies suggest maternal diabetes could increase its risk. This study aims to explore the impact of maternal T2DM on the development of ROP in preterm infants.

Materials and methods: Retrospective study examined the medical records of preterm infants born between 2021 and 2024 at RL Jalappa hospital. Infants whose mothers had gestational Type 2 diabetes records were evaluated for incidence of ROP, assessed during screening. The data were analysed using statistical methods to identify associations between maternal T2DM and ROP incidence, adjusting for gestational age, birth weight, and other maternal conditions.

Results: Out of 146 preterm infants born to mothers with gestational T2DM, 38 (26.2%) developed ROP. Of these, 15 infants (12.5%) had severe stages (2 and 3) of ROP. The risk of ROP was found to be significantly higher in infants of mothers with gestational T2DM, even after adjusting for gestational age and birth weight. The incidence of severe ROP stages was notably concerning, highlighting the potential impact of maternal T2DM on retinal health in preterm infants.

Conclusion: Gestational Type 2 diabetes is associated with an increased risk of ROP in preterm infants. These findings emphasize the need for close monitoring of preterm infants born to mothers with T2DM, with early intervention strategies to mitigate ROP risk and optimize care for these infants.