Risk scale for the development of neurological disorders at an early age in premature infants

Abstract

Objective. To establish clinical parameters that are significant in the neonatal period and determine the high and low risk of developing neurological disorders at the age of 1,6 year, adjusted for gestation at birth, in premature infants with different gestational ages.

Materials and methods. A retrospective-prospective study included 212 premature babies born between 26 and 37 weeks of gestation. Four groups were formed depending on the gestational age at birth: up to 28 weeks (n = 36); 28—31 weeks (n = 51); 32—33 weeks (n = 55); 34—36 weeks (n = 70).

Results. A quantitative risk scale for the development of neurological disorders in premature infants at postconceptual age of 1,6 years has been developed. Based on the total score, this scale allows a particular child to be classified into a high or low risk group for neurodevelopmental disorders. It was found that the studied model has a predictive accuracy of 86.3 % (95 % CI (0.853—0.908)), specificity of 0.672 (95 % CI (0.653—0.748)) and sensitivity of 0.912 (95 % CI (0.888—0.958)).

Conclusion. The definition of risk groups is scientifically substantiated and has advantages, in particular, it allows for a unified approach in assessment not only by rehabilitation doctors, but by pediatricians, neonatologists, and neurologists. It is easy to use, does not require computer programs or technical equipment, which eliminates additional costs.