Factors Affecting Development of Motor Skills in Extremely Low Birth Weight Children

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study is to analyze the impact of ophthalmic and neonatal factors on motor development in extremely low birth weight (ELBW) children. Methods: Sixty-four ELBW children at least 3 years of age were recruited. Visual acuity (VA) was assessed using the Teller acuity cards (TACs) and a letter test, if possible. A validated questionnaire assessing 25 fine (part A) and 20 gross motor (part B) skills was administered to the parents. Data were collected on retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) zone, intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH), length of stay in hospital, and number of days on oxygen. Results: Abnormal TAC acuity was associated with significantly lower scores on both parts A and B (part A: 21.5 versus 11.8, p < 0.001; part B: 17.5 versus 13.2, p < 0.001). Linear regression demonstrates a significant direct relationship between letter acuity and score A only (p = 0.03, r² = 0.179). Neither length of hospital stay, number of days ventilated, nor a history of IVH were associated with score A or B. However, the presence of ROP zone 1 was associated with a lower score A (p = 0.03). Conclusion: In this ELBW cohort VA and ophthalmic factors were the only factors associated with scores of development, particularly fine motor development.

KEYWORDS:

• extremely low birth weight
• development
• retinopathy of prematurity
• visual acuity