Analysis of risk factors for retinopathy of prematurity: a single-center retrospective cohort study
Highlight box
Key findings
• Hypophosphatemia emerged as a novel independent risk factor for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) development [odds ratio (OR) =2.29; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.2–3.5; P<0.001].
• Prolonged non-invasive ventilation duration significantly increased ROP risk (OR =1.49; 95% CI: 1.2–1.8; P=0.002).
• Infants with ROP required significantly longer time to achieve full enteral feeding (35.0±17.10 vs. 24.64±15.17 days; P=0.006).
What is known and what is new?
• Traditional risk factors for ROP include low birth weight, prematurity, prolonged oxygen therapy, and respiratory complications.
• This study identifies metabolic derangements, particularly hypophosphatemia, as significant risk factors for ROP development, suggesting new opportunities for prevention through metabolic optimization.
What is the implication, and what should change now?
• Routine monitoring and correction of phosphate levels should be considered in ROP prevention protocols.
• Optimization of nutritional support to achieve earlier full enteral feeding may reduce ROP risk.
• Future prospective studies should investigate whether phosphate supplementation protocols can reduce ROP incidence.
Introduction
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) remains a leading cause of preventable childhood blindness worldwide, particularly in countries with developing neonatal intensive care systems (1). Despite significant advances in neonatal care over the past decades, the incidence of ROP has not decreased proportionally, largely due to the improved survival rates of extremely premature infants (2). ROP incidence varies significantly by geographic region, with resource-limited areas often reporting higher rates than developed countries. For example, studies from rural tertiary hospitals in Thailand have demonstrated regional variations in ROP incidence, emphasizing the importance of understanding local risk factor profiles (3).
The pathogenesis of ROP is complex and multifactorial, involving two distinct phases of vascular development. The initial phase is characterized by delayed retinal vascular growth and partial regression of existing vessels, while the second phase involves pathological neovascularization (4). Multiple risk factors have been identified that may influence these processes, with prematurity and low birth weight being the most well-established (5).
Recent evidence suggests that beyond these traditional risk factors, various perinatal and postnatal factors may contribute to ROP development. These include prolonged oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation, sepsis, bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), and poor postnatal weight gain (6). The role of systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, and nutritional factors has also gained increasing attention in recent years (7). Furthermore, genetic predisposition and racial differences have been suggested to influence ROP susceptibility (8).
The timing and intensity of interventions in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) may significantly impact ROP development. Recent studies have highlighted the importance of careful oxygen management, optimal nutrition, and prevention of comorbidities in reducing ROP risk (9). However, the relative contribution of these various factors and their interactions remain incompletely understood, particularly in different healthcare settings and populations (10). Early identification of infants at high risk for ROP is crucial for timely screening and intervention. While current screening guidelines primarily rely on gestational age and birth weight, incorporating additional risk factors could potentially improve risk stratification (11). Moreover, understanding modifiable risk factors could inform preventive strategies and optimize NICU protocols (12).
The purpose of this study was to analyze the perinatal and postnatal risk factors associated with ROP development in premature infants in a single tertiary care center, with particular attention to potentially modifiable factors that could inform prevention strategies. This article is presented in accordance with the STROBE reporting checklist (available at https://tp.amegroups.com/article/view/10.21037/tp-2025-440/rc).
Methods
Study design and setting
This retrospective cohort study was conducted at the NICU of The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, a tertiary care center, from April 2020 to June 2023. Our facility is an 80-bed level III NICU providing comprehensive care for high-risk newborns, with approximately 1,600 admissions annually. This study was conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki and its subsequent amendments. The study protocol was approved by the Institutional Review Board of The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College [IRB No. (2025-161)]. Informed consent was obtained from the legal guardians of all participating infants prior to their inclusion in the study.
Study population and sample size
The inclusion criteria were established based on current national guidelines for ROP screening. We included infants with gestational age ≤30 weeks or birth weight <1,500 g, as well as those with birth weight 1,500–2,000 g or gestational age >30 weeks who had an unstable clinical course, consistent with American Academy of Pediatrics screening recommendations (13). The initial sample size calculation, based on an estimated ROP incidence of 20% and a desired precision of 5%, indicated a minimum required sample size of 246 infants. We excluded infants who died before their first ROP screening, those with major congenital anomalies affecting systemic development, chromosomal abnormalities, and cases with incomplete medical records or missing key variables.
ROP screening protocol and diagnosis
Initial ROP screening was performed at 4–6 weeks postnatal age or at 31–32 weeks postmenstrual age, whichever came later. Follow-up examinations were scheduled according to International Classification of Retinopathy of Prematurity (ICROP) criteria: weekly for immature retina in zone I, every 1–2 weeks for zone II disease, and every 3–4 weeks for zone III vascularization until complete retinal vascularization or disease regression was documented.
Prior to examination, pupils were dilated using a standardized protocol of tropicamide 0.5% eye drops administered three times at 10-minute intervals. All examinations were performed by Chief Physician of Shantou International Ophthalmology Center with over 10 years of experience in ROP screening, using binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy with a 28-diopter lens and scleral depression when necessary. The diagnosis and staging of ROP followed the ICROP criteria, including detailed documentation of the zone, stage, extent of involvement, and presence or absence of plus disease.
Data collection process
Our data collection process employed a dual-reviewer system with standardized electronic forms developed through expert consensus. Two trained research nurses independently extracted data from electronic medical records, with a third senior neonatologist resolving any discrepancies. Regular quality control checks were performed on 10% of randomly selected records to ensure data accuracy. The electronic data collection form underwent pilot testing with 20 cases before full implementation, achieving an inter-rater reliability coefficient of 0.92.
Comprehensive variable assessment and measurement
All physiological parameters were measured using standardized equipment and protocols. Vital signs were recorded using continuous monitoring systems calibrated according to manufacturer specifications. Blood pressure measurements were obtained using non-invasive oscillometric devices, with readings documented hourly or more frequently as clinically indicated. Temperature regulation was maintained using servo-controlled incubators with continuous skin temperature monitoring.
The Neonatal Behavioral Neurological Assessment (NBNA) was performed according to standardized protocols, with a total score ranging from 0 to 40 points, where higher scores indicate better neurobehavioral status. Shock was defined as clinical signs of poor perfusion requiring vasopressor support, with or without elevated lactate levels, as documented by the attending neonatologist during the clinical course.
Respiratory support and monitoring
Respiratory support parameters were meticulously documented, including specific details of both non-invasive and invasive ventilation. Non-invasive respiratory support included nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) and high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC), with detailed recording of pressure settings, flow rates, and fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) requirements. For mechanically ventilated infants, we documented ventilator modes, peak inspiratory pressures, positive end-expiratory pressures, mean airway pressures, and tidal volumes. Oxygen saturation targets were maintained between 90–95% using standardized protocols, with continuous recording of oxygen saturation trends and documentation of deviation episodes. Oxygen saturation was continuously monitored and recorded hourly, with deviations below 85% or above 95% documented as significant events. Episodes of desaturation were categorized as mild (85–89%), moderate (80–84%), or severe (<80%), and their frequency, duration, and timing were analyzed in relation to clinical interventions.
Nutritional management protocol
The nutritional management followed a standardized protocol based on current international guidelines. Parenteral nutrition was initiated within the first 24 hours of life using a standardized solution containing amino acids, dextrose, and lipids. The composition and advancement of parenteral nutrition followed unit protocols, with regular monitoring of biochemical parameters. Enteral feeding was initiated according to The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College’s protocol, with detailed documentation of feeding type, volume, and advancement rates. Human milk was fortified according to standardized protocols when feeding volume reached 50–100 mL/kg/day.
Laboratory monitoring and biochemical assessment
Blood sampling followed a predetermined schedule to minimize iatrogenic blood loss. Routine blood samples were collected at admission, then at 24, 48, and 72 hours of life, followed by twice weekly monitoring or more frequently as clinically indicated. Magnesium and phosphate measurements were included in the routine laboratory panel for all patients and were not selectively obtained. Complete blood counts, comprehensive metabolic panels, and blood gas analyses were performed using standardized laboratory equipment. Blood gas analyses were primarily performed using arterial samples when arterial access was available, or capillary samples in other cases, with the method clearly documented. Analyses were conducted at admission, then daily for the first 72 hours, and subsequently as clinically indicated, with particular attention to periods of respiratory deterioration or changes in ventilatory support. Specific thresholds were established for metabolic derangements: hypocalcemia was defined as serum calcium below 1.8 mmol/L, hypomagnesemia as serum magnesium below 0.6 mmol/L, and hypophosphatemia as serum phosphate below 0.85 mmol/L. Blood gas analyses were performed using point-of-care testing with regular quality control checks.
Statistical analysis
Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 25.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Continuous variables were expressed as means with standard deviations or medians with interquartile ranges, depending on their distribution. Categorical variables were presented as frequencies and percentages. The normality of continuous variables was assessed using the Shapiro-Wilk test. Comparisons between ROP and non-ROP groups were conducted using Student’s t-test or Mann-Whitney U test for continuous variables, and Chi-squared or Fisher’s exact test for categorical variables, as appropriate.
Variables with P<0.05 in bivariate analysis were included in the multivariate logistic regression model. Gestational age, birth weight, and sex were forced into the model as a priori confounders to control for confounding. Given the limited number of ROP events (n=17), we carefully considered the events-per-variable ratio to avoid overfitting. Model fit was evaluated using the Hosmer-Lemeshow test, and discrimination was assessed through the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve. Results were expressed as adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals, and P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results
Demographic and basic clinical characteristics
Among the 346 preterm infants included in this study, 17 (4.91%) developed ROP and 329 (95.09%) did not. As shown in Table 1, there were no significant differences in sex distribution, birth weight, or gestational age between groups. Blood gas analysis showed no significant difference in partial pressure of oxygen in arterial blood (PaO2) levels between groups (P=0.45). NBNA scores were significantly lower in the ROP group (25.35±2.45 vs. 26.81±2.76; P=0.03).
Table 1
| Characteristics | ROP group (n=17) | Non-ROP group (n=329) | P value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infant characteristics | |||
| Sex | 0.66 | ||
| Male | 11 (64.71) | 185 (56.23) | |
| Female | 6 (35.29) | 144 (43.77) | |
| Birth weight (kg) | 1.21±0.47 | 1.66±0.29 | 0.73 |
| Gestational age (weeks) | 30.3±2.4 | 29.08±2.41 | 0.15 |
| Growth percentile | 0.39 | ||
| <P3 | 6 (35.29) | 68 (21.05) | |
| P3–P10 | 2 (0.12) | 3 (0.93) | |
| >P10–P25 | 2 (0.12) | 31 (9.60) | |
| >P25–P90 | 5 (0.29) | 24 (7.43) | |
| Blood gas analysis | |||
| PaO2 (mmHg) | 92.38±58.18 | 85.51±34.62 | 0.45 |
| PaCO2 (mmHg) | 46.46±8.2 | 46.1±9.1 | 0.53 |
| Metabolic acidosis | 12 (70.59) | 171 (51.98) | 0.21 |
| NBNA score | 25.35±2.45 | 26.81±2.76 | 0.03 |
Data are presented as n (%) or mean ± standard deviation. NBNA, Neonatal Behavioral Neurological Assessment; PaCO2, partial pressure of carbon dioxide in arterial blood; PaO2, partial pressure of oxygen in arterial blood; ROP, retinopathy of prematurity.
ROP characteristics and interventions
Among the 17 infants who developed ROP, the distribution by severity included 9 (52.9%) with stage 1, 5 (29.4%) with stage 2, and 3 (17.6%) with stage 3. Zone II was most commonly affected (76.5%), followed by zone III (17.6%) and zone I (5.9%). Plus disease was observed in 2 (11.8%) cases. Regarding interventions, 3 (17.6%) infants required laser photocoagulation therapy, while none needed anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy or surgical intervention. Exploratory analysis of severe ROP (n=3) suggested possible associations with hypophosphatemia, prolonged mechanical ventilation, and shock episodes; however, given the extremely limited sample size, these findings are hypothesis-generating only and cannot support robust conclusions.
Maternal and pregnancy-related factors
Table 2 demonstrates that maternal and pregnancy-related characteristics showed no significant differences between groups.
Table 2
| Characteristics | ROP group (n=17) | Non-ROP group (n=329) | P value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maternal age (years) | 29.5±4.2 | 28.52±5.39 | 0.64 |
| Mode of delivery | 0.16 | ||
| Vaginal delivery | 12 (70.59) | 151 (47.19) | |
| Cesarean section | 5 (29.41) | 168 (52.50) | |
| Cesarean (general anesthesia) | 0 (0.00) | 1 (0.31) | |
| Pregnancy type | 0.83 | ||
| Singleton | 13 (76.47) | 265 (81.54) | |
| Twin | 4 (23.53) | 58 (17.85) | |
| Higher order multiples | 0 (0.00) | 2 (0.62) | |
| Amniotic fluid | 0.94 | ||
| Clear | 14 (82.35) | 267 (82.92) | |
| Bloody | 1 (5.88) | 26 (8.07) | |
| Grade III | 2 (11.76) | 8 (2.48) | |
| Other | 0 (0.00) | 12 (3.65) | |
| Placenta status | 0.23 | ||
| Normal | 17 (100.00) | 281 (87.27) | |
| Abnormal | 0 (0.00) | 48 (12.73) | |
| Antenatal steroid administration | 9 (52.94) | 244 (74.16) | 0.06 |
| Chorioamnionitis | 2 (11.76) | 24 (7.29) | 0.62 |
| Funisitis | 1 (5.88) | 9 (2.74) | 0.41 |
| Maternal conditions | |||
| Hypertension | 2 (13.33) | 55 (17.97) | 0.88 |
| Diabetes | 2 (13.33) | 40 (13.11) | >0.99 |
| Thyroid dysfunction | 0.90 | ||
| None | 14 (93.33) | 297 (97.38) | |
| Hyperthyroidism | 1 (6.67) | 5 (1.64) | |
| Immune system disorders | >0.99 | ||
| None | 12 (80.00) | 244 (79.74) | |
| Cervical incompetence | 1 (6.67) | 6 (1.96) | |
| Vaginal candidiasis | 1 (6.67) | 6 (1.96) | |
| Other | 1 (6.67) | 29 (14.42) | |
| PROM | 2 (11.76) | 107 (33.33) | 0.11 |
| Tocolysis | 4 (23.53) | 121 (35.20) | 0.46 |
| Assisted reproduction | 2 (11.76) | 19 (5.78) | 0.62 |
Data are presented as n (%) or mean ± standard deviation. PROM, premature rupture of membranes; ROP, retinopathy of prematurity.
Clinical interventions and respiratory support
Significant findings from Table 3 included longer duration of non-invasive ventilation in the ROP group (14.3±12.8 vs. 7.4±6.7 days; P=0.004), longer parenteral nutrition duration (35.0±17.10 vs. 24.60±15.19 days; P=0.006), longer time to achieve full enteral feeding (35.0±17.10 vs. 24.64±15.17 days; P=0.006), higher advanced antibiotic use (76.47% vs. 37.99%; P=0.003), and lower steroid use (47.06% vs. 82.07%; P=0.001).
Table 3
| Characteristics | ROP group (n=17) | Non-ROP group (n=329) | P value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Respiratory support | |||
| Non-invasive ventilation | |||
| Duration (days) | 14.3±12.8 | 7.4±6.7 | 0.004 |
| FiO2 (%) | 30.2±6.5 | 25.2±5.7 | 0.19 |
| PIP (cmH2O) | 8.5±3.2 | 7.9±5.7 | 0.63 |
| Invasive ventilation | |||
| Duration (days) | 7.9±6.1 | 13.7±9.3 | 0.28 |
| FiO2 (%) | 37.5±21.3 | 25.9±6.5 | 0.61 |
| PIP (cmH2O) | 19.8±3.1 | 15.2±6.3 | 0.38 |
| Medical interventions | |||
| Surfactant use | 16 (94.11) | 270 (82.07) | 0.34 |
| Steroid use | 8 (47.06) | 270 (82.07) | 0.001 |
| Advanced antibiotic use | 13 (76.47) | 125 (37.99) | 0.003 |
| Nutrition management | |||
| Breastfeeding | 4 (23.53) | 88 (26.75) | 0.82 |
| Time to initiate feeding (hours) | 67.2±69.6 | 116.58±154.70 | 0.70 |
| Parenteral nutrition duration (days) | 35.0±17.10 | 24.60±15.19 | 0.006 |
| Time to full enteral feeding (days) | 35.0±17.10 | 24.64±15.17 | 0.006 |
| Length of hospital stay (days) | 65.59±21.85 | 50.04±19.51 | 0.001 |
Data are presented as n (%) or mean ± standard deviation. FiO2, fraction of inspired oxygen; PIP, peak inspiratory pressure; ROP, retinopathy of prematurity.
Clinical complications and metabolic disorders
Significant findings from Table 4 included higher rates of BPD (64.71% vs. 21.88%; P<0.001), shock (76.47% vs. 35.26%; P=0.001), hypophosphatemia (29.41% vs. 4.86%; P<0.001), intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) (41.18% vs. 17.02%; P=0.02), and apnea (41.18% vs. 17.33%; P=0.03) in the ROP group. Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) showed a trend toward higher prevalence in the ROP group but was not statistically significant (70.59% vs. 55.02%; P=0.06).
Table 4
| Characteristics | ROP group (n=17) | Non-ROP group (n=329) | P value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Major complications | |||
| BPD | 11 (64.71) | 72 (21.88) | <0.001 |
| Shock | 13 (76.47) | 116 (35.26) | 0.001 |
| Infection | >0.99 | ||
| Yes | 15 (88.24) | 272 (82.67) | |
| No | 2 (11.76) | 45 (13.68) | |
| Fungal and bacterial | 0 (0.00) | 12 (3.65) | |
| NEC | 3 (8.81) | 29 (8.81) | 0.42 |
| Bell’s stage ≥2B | 2 (66.7) | 7 (24.1) | 0.03 |
| Surgical intervention | 1 (33.3) | 3 (10.3) | 0.041 |
| PDA | 9 (52.94) | 103 (31.31) | 0.11 |
| IVH | 7 (41.18) | 56 (17.02) | 0.02 |
| Periventricular leukomalacia | 3 (17.65) | 18 (5.47) | 0.042 |
| RDS | 15 (88.23) | 278 (84.50) | 0.94 |
| HIE | 12 (70.59) | 181 (55.02) | 0.06 |
| Blood transfusions | |||
| Received | 16 (94.12) | 272 (82.67) | 0.41 |
| Number | 2.8±1.7 | 1.3±0.9 | 0.001 |
| Total volume (mL/kg) | 45.2±18.6 | 22.3±14.2 | <0.001 |
| Metabolic disorders | |||
| Hypocalcemia | 4 (23.53) | 137 (41.64) | 0.21 |
| Hypomagnesemia | 5 (29.41) | 115 (34.95) | 0.80 |
| Hypophosphatemia | 5 (29.41) | 16 (4.86) | <0.001 |
| Hypothyroidism | 4 (23.53) | 27 (8.21) | 0.08 |
| Hypoglycemia | 3 (17.65) | 22 (6.69) | 0.22 |
| Anemia | 16 (94.11) | 272 (82.67) | 0.41 |
| Coagulation disorder | 14 (82.35) | 121 (36.78) | 0.17 |
| Other complications | |||
| Pulmonary hemorrhage | 1 (5.88) | 17 (5.17) | >0.99 |
| Apnea | 7 (41.18) | 57 (17.33) | 0.03 |
Data are presented as n (%) or mean ± standard deviation. BPD, bronchopulmonary dysplasia; HIE, hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy; IVH, intraventricular hemorrhage; NEC, necrotizing enterocolitis; PDA, patent ductus arteriosus; RDS, respiratory distress syndrome; ROP, retinopathy of prematurity.
Multivariate analysis
Variables with P<0.05 in bivariate analysis were included in the multivariate logistic regression model. Gestational age, birth weight, and sex were forced into the model as a priori confounders. The final model (Table 5) identified the following significant independent risk factors: duration of non-invasive ventilation [odds ratio (OR) =1.49; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.2–1.8; P=0.002], hospital stay (OR =1.35; 95% CI: 1.2–1.5; P=0.005), hypophosphatemia (OR =2.29; 95% CI: 1.2–3.5; P<0.001), and apnea (OR =2.01; 95% CI: 1.2–2.1; P=0.03). Other variables showed non-significant trends.
Table 5
| Variable | Adjusted OR | 95% CI | P value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Non-invasive ventilation duration | 1.49 | 1.2–1.8 | 0.002 |
| Parenteral nutrition duration | 1.28 | 1.1–1.4 | 0.050 |
| Time to full enteral feeding | 0.55 | 0.3–1.0 | 0.051 |
| Length of hospital stay | 1.35 | 1.2–1.5 | 0.005 |
| NBNA score | 1.22 | 1.1–1.3 | 0.03 |
| Hypomagnesemia | 1.48 | 0.4–2.4 | 0.80 |
| Hypophosphatemia | 2.29 | 1.2–3.5 | <0.001 |
| BPD | 0.67 | 0.5–1.0 | 0.052 |
| Steroid use | 1.02 | 0.9–1.3 | 0.89 |
| Shock | 1.72 | 0.8–2.2 | 0.11 |
| Advanced antibiotic use | 0.90 | 0.8–1.3 | 0.62 |
| Apnea | 2.01 | 1.2–2.1 | 0.03 |
Model diagnostics: Nagelkerke, R2 =0.42; Hosmer-Lemeshow, P=0.38, AUC =0.85. AUC, area under the curve; BPD, bronchopulmonary dysplasia; CI, confidence interval; NBNA, Neonatal Behavioral Neurological Assessment; OR, odds ratio; ROP, retinopathy of prematurity.
Discussion
In this single-center retrospective cohort study, we identified several significant risk factors associated with ROP development in preterm infants. Most notably, our findings highlight the crucial role of metabolic derangements, particularly hypophosphatemia, alongside traditional risk factors such as prolonged respiratory support and complications like BPD. Additionally, we observed that the duration of parenteral nutrition and time to achieve full enteral feeding were significantly associated with ROP development, suggesting the importance of optimal nutritional management in ROP prevention (14).
The association between hypophosphatemia and ROP development observed in our study represents a novel finding that warrants further investigation. While phosphate homeostasis has been extensively studied in preterm infant metabolism, its specific role in retinal vascular development has received limited attention. Recent research has suggested that phosphate deficiency may influence angiogenesis through disruption of energy metabolism and cellular signaling pathways (15). Phosphate plays a crucial role in ATP production and cellular energy metabolism, and its deficiency might impair the normal development of retinal vessels through metabolic stress (16). Furthermore, recent studies have shown that phosphate deficiency can activate hypoxia-inducible factors, potentially contributing to pathological angiogenesis in the developing retina (17).
The significant relationship between hypomagnesemia and ROP adds to the growing body of evidence linking mineral homeostasis to retinal vascular development. Magnesium, as a crucial cofactor in numerous enzymatic processes and an important regulator of oxidative stress, may influence retinal vascularization through multiple pathways (18). Experimental studies have demonstrated that magnesium deficiency can enhance free radical formation and increase susceptibility to oxidative stress, which are key mechanisms in ROP pathogenesis (19). Additionally, magnesium’s role in stabilizing cell membranes and regulating vascular tone might explain its potential protective effect against ROP development (20).
The relationship between prolonged non-invasive ventilation and ROP development observed in our study merits particular attention. While the benefits of non-invasive respiratory support in reducing lung injury are well-established, our findings suggest that the duration of such support may influence ROP risk independently of oxygen concentration (21). Recent evidence indicates that fluctuations in oxygen delivery, rather than absolute oxygen levels alone, may be critical in ROP pathogenesis (22). The extended duration of non-invasive support might increase the likelihood of such fluctuations, particularly during routine care activities (23). The higher frequency of oxygen saturation fluctuations observed in our ROP group aligns with findings from Nobile et al. [2014], who demonstrated that implementing stringent oxygen saturation targets and minimizing fluctuations significantly reduced severe ROP incidence from 5.3% to 1% over an 8-year period (24). Their study emphasized that maintaining tight control of oxygen saturation between carefully defined intervals by well-trained staff was more effective than simply lowering oxygen targets.
The significant association between prolonged parenteral nutrition and ROP risk emphasizes the complex relationship between nutrition and retinal vascular development (25). Early aggressive nutrition has been shown to protect against ROP by promoting appropriate weight gain and reducing oxidative stress (26). Our findings regarding delayed achievement of full enteral feeding in the ROP group suggest that optimizing the transition from parenteral to enteral nutrition might represent a modifiable risk factor (27). Recent research has demonstrated that specific nutrients, including long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants, may play protective roles in retinal development (28).
The higher incidence of BPD in our ROP group supports the concept of “oxygen radical disease of prematurity”, where multiple organs are affected by oxidative stress and inflammation (29). This association suggests common pathophysiological mechanisms underlying both conditions and emphasizes the importance of considering ROP prevention within a broader framework of reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in preterm infants (30). The significant relationship between shock episodes and ROP development indicates that systemic circulatory compromise may contribute to retinal vascular pathology through altered tissue perfusion and oxygenation (31).
The role of advanced antibiotic use in our ROP group raises important questions about the impact of inflammation and infection on retinal vascular development (32). Recent studies have suggested that systemic inflammation may modify the expression of angiogenic factors in the developing retina (33). Furthermore, the association between prolonged antibiotic exposure and altered gut microbiota might influence systemic inflammation and oxidative stress levels (34).
Limitations
The limitations of our study include its retrospective nature and single-center design, which may limit the generalizability of our findings. The relatively small number of ROP cases (n=17) in our cohort raises concerns about potential overfitting in the multivariate model, as evidenced by the events-per-variable ratio. This may lead to unstable estimates and overestimation of certain effects. Additionally, we were unable to assess certain potentially important variables, such as genetic factors and detailed oxygen saturation targeting practices. The frequency of laboratory testing, although following routine protocols, may have varied based on clinical status, potentially introducing detection bias for metabolic abnormalities. The direction and magnitude of this bias are difficult to quantify but could either overestimate or underestimate the true associations. Residual confounding from unmeasured variables cannot be excluded. Future prospective studies with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm our findings and better understand the mechanistic relationships between metabolic disorders and ROP development.
Conclusions
Our study identifies several potentially modifiable risk factors associated with ROP development in preterm infants, particularly highlighting the significance of metabolic derangements such as hypophosphatemia. The associations between prolonged respiratory support, delayed enteral feeding achievement, and increased ROP risk underscore the importance of optimizing both respiratory and nutritional management strategies. While our findings are limited by the study’s retrospective nature and small sample size, they suggest that careful attention to metabolic parameters, alongside established protocols for oxygen and nutritional management, may offer new opportunities for ROP prevention.
Acknowledgments
None.
Footnote
Reporting Checklist: The author has completed the STROBE reporting checklist. Available at https://tp.amegroups.com/article/view/10.21037/tp-2025-440/rc
Data Sharing Statement: Available at https://tp.amegroups.com/article/view/10.21037/tp-2025-440/dss
Peer Review File: Available at https://tp.amegroups.com/article/view/10.21037/tp-2025-440/prf
Funding: This study was funded by
Conflicts of Interest: The author has completed the ICMJE uniform disclosure form (available at https://tp.amegroups.com/article/view/10.21037/tp-2025-440/coif). The author has no conflicts of interest to declare.
Ethical Statement: The author is accountable for all aspects of the work in ensuring that questions related to the accuracy or integrity of any part of the work are appropriately investigated and resolved. This study was conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki and its subsequent amendments. The study protocol was approved by the Institutional Review Board of The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College [IRB No. (2025-161)]. Informed consent was obtained from the legal guardians of all participating infants prior to their inclusion in the study.
Open Access Statement: This is an Open Access article distributed in accordance with the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 4.0 International License (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0), which permits the non-commercial replication and distribution of the article with the strict proviso that no changes or edits are made and the original work is properly cited (including links to both the formal publication through the relevant DOI and the license). See: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/.
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