The oxygen paradox in retinopathy of prematurity: could fetal hemoglobin be the key? - Takeaways - MDSpire

The oxygen paradox in retinopathy of prematurity: could fetal hemoglobin be the key?

  • By

  • Marcus T. A. Jackson

  • Ronny Amamoo

  • Menaka C. Thounaojam

  • Pamela M. Martin

  • Ravirajsinh N. Jadeja

  • June 2, 2026

  • 0 min

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  • 1

    Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a major preventable cause of childhood blindness in preterm infants, influenced by various risk factors.

  • 2

    Lower fetal hemoglobin (HbF) levels between 31 and 34 weeks postmenstrual age are linked to increased ROP incidence and severity.

  • 3

    Red blood cell transfusions from adult donors accelerate HbF decline, potentially increasing retinal oxygen exposure and oxidative stress.

  • 4

    HbF's higher oxygen affinity may protect against hyperoxic injury in the premature retina, suggesting its role in ROP risk mitigation.

  • 5

    The proposed 'HbF stewardship' approach includes monitoring HbF levels and optimizing transfusions to prevent ROP in preterm infants.

Original Source(s)

The oxygen paradox in retinopathy of prematurity: could fetal hemoglobin be the key?

  • by Marcus T. A. Jackson, Ronny Amamoo, Menaka C. Thounaojam, Pamela M. Martin, Ravirajsinh N. Jadeja

  • June 2, 2026

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