Retinopathy of Prematurity

Introduction

• A disorder known as Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) affects preterm infants with low birth weights (BW) and young gestational ages.
• In premature infants, the blood vessels in the retina may grow abnormally, leading to a condition called ROP.
• ROP remains a leading cause of lifelong visual impairment.

Causes

• Premature Birth
• Oxygen Exposure
• Low Birth weight

Risk Factors

ROP is a disease of the smallest and the sickest infants. The two main risk factors are low birth-weight and premature birth. Additional risk factors for ROP development include:

• Several births
• Additional intestinal and pulmonary health issues
• Infection
• Other Medical Conditions: Infections, anemia, and other medical problems can also increase the risk.

Diagnosis of ROP

A dilated eye exam is performed to examine the retina in detail. If an infant is uncooperative, this procedure is done under general anesthesia.

Treatment & Management

• Early Diagnosis: ROP screening and laser therapy or Cryo-therapy, applied to the avascular retina, help prevent further progression of ROP.
• In Case of Retinal Detachment: Vitreo-retinal surgery may be performed to recover the condition.
• Prevention: ROP can be prevented by preventing preterm delivery, appropriate use of O2 therapy, and vitamin E supplementation as antioxidants in high-risk infants.