Investigating the role of iron levels in preterm infants with Retinopathy of Prematurity

Iron, Transferrin and Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP): Towards New Pathophysiological Mechanisms.

Observational Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris · NCT05133999

This study is trying to see if high iron levels in the blood can affect the development and severity of vision problems in preterm babies.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment175 (estimated)
Ages24 Weeks to 31 Weeks
SexAll
SponsorAssistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris Academic / other
Locations3 sites (Paris and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05133999 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to assess whether increased transferrin saturation in plasma, indicative of iron overload or low transferrin, is an independent risk factor for the development and severity of Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) in preterm infants. Infants born at less than 31 weeks of gestation or weighing 1250 grams or less will have their plasma iron parameters measured during the first month of life. The study will screen for ROP as per current recommendations and analyze the relationship between plasma iron levels and ROP outcomes. The findings could clarify the controversial link between iron overload from blood transfusions and ROP.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are preterm infants born at less than 31 weeks of gestation or weighing 1250 grams or less.

Not a fit: Patients with congenital malformations or life-threatening conditions that are not expected to survive more than a few days may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved screening and management strategies for preterm infants at risk of ROP.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies on this topic have shown mixed results, indicating that this area of research is still under investigation.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* All infants born at \<31 week's post-menstrual age (PMA) or ≤1250g of birthweight
* Admitted at two neonatology departments (level III) from birth
* With non-opposition consent of two parents

Exclusion Criteria:

* Congenital malformation
* Life-threatening condition (not expected to survive more than a few days)
* Absence of health care protection.

Where this trial is running

Paris and 2 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Retinopathy of PrematurityretinopathyprematurityROPIron and transferrinPreterm infants
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.