Thickness analysis of the retinal nerve fiber layer, macula, and choroid in children born preterm stratified by birth weight

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether birth weight influences retinal development in children born preterm, we analyzed the thickness of the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), fovea centralis, and choroid. METHODS: Participants born preterm were categorized as extremely low birth weight (ELBW, <1000 g), very low birth weight (VLBW, 1000-1500 g), and low birth weight (LBW, 1500-2500 g). RNFL thickness, fovea centralis thickness (macular center), and subfoveal choroidal thickness were measured using optical coherence tomography. Linear regression was used to evaluate associations between OCT parameters and birth weight. RESULTS: < 0.001). CONCLUSION: In children born preterm, lower birth weight is associated with thinner inferior and nasal RNFL. OCT-derived RNFL measurements may help inform long-term monitoring of retinal development in preterm-born children, particularly those with low birth weight and/or ROP history.