Hittner et al developed a grading scheme for the anterior vascular capsule of the ocular lens that correlates with gestational age. This can estimate the approximate age for a premature infant. The authors are from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston.
Appearance of the Anterior Vascular Capsule
Grade
Gestational Age
vascularity extends to center with no clear zone
4
27 – 28 weeks
central clearing with vascularity extending into inner third
3
29 - 30 weeks
central clearing in central half to two thirds
2
31 – 32 weeks
vascularity limited to outer third of capsule
1
33 – 34 weeks
no vascularity
0
35+ weeks
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