Postnatal corticosteroids and risk of retinopathy of prematurity.
To investigate the association between postnatal steroids and retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in neonates born with birth weights at the limit of viability (<500 g).



Data from the Pediatrix BabySteps Clinical Warehouse were retrospectively reviewed. The study population consisted of 1,472 neonates with birth weights of <500 g who were discharged alive from 167 NICUs between 1996 and 2013. Statistical significance for unadjusted comparisons between groups was determined using the χ(2) or t test. Logistic regression was used to calculate odds of ROP.



In multivariate analysis, the odds of any ROP for steroid treated infants was 1.6 (95% CI, 1.2-2.2) compared to nontreated infants; the odds of advanced ROP was 1.7 (95% CI, 1.3-2.3).



In our large study cohort of critically low birth weight infants ROP was more common in neonates exposed to postnatal steroids.
Zietchick Research Institute, Plymouth, Michigan and Midland County Department of Public Health, Midland, Michigan. Electronic address: tmovsas@gmail.com.
Tammy Z
TZ
Movsas
MEDNAX Services-Pediatrix Medical Group, Sunrise, Florida.
Alan R
AR
Spitzer
Department of Pediatrics & Human Development, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan.
Ira H
IH
Gewolb
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000009:adverse effects*; D015331:Cohort Studies; D005865:Gestational Age; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D019102:Infant, Very Low Birth Weight; D007363:Intensive Care Units, Neonatal; D016015:Logistic Models; D012178:Retinopathy of Prematurity / Q000209:etiology*; D012307:Risk Factors
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones