Retinopathy of Prematurity
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is an eye disease that occurs when abnormal blood vessels develop in the retina of premature babies.
Causes
ROP can affect babies born before 31 weeks, or who weigh less than 3 pounds at birth. Other risk factors include maternal preeclampsia, pulmonary hemorrhage, and duration of ventilation.
Symptoms
Abnormal eye movements
White pupils
Inability to track objects
ROP is a condition that only affects premature babies, and the more premature the baby, the higher the risk of developing it. The severity of ROP is defined by its stage, with stages 4 and 5 being the most severe.
The only way to determine if a baby has ROP is through an examination by a retina surgeon. Early detection is important, and at-risk babies are monitored by ophthalmologists during the weeks after birth.
Mild cases of ROP usually heal on their own within four months. For more severe cases, treatment options include laser treatment, freezing treatment, or medication eye injections.
Advanced ROP can lead to blindness, severe nearsightedness, or other vision-threatening conditions.
The best way to prevent ROP is to avoid premature birth. Healthcare providers recommend screenings for at-risk babies soon after birth.
Treatment
Mild cases of ROP usually heal on their own within four months. For more severe cases, treatment options include laser treatment, freezing treatment, or medication eye injections.
Complications
Advanced ROP can lead to blindness, severe nearsightedness, or other vision-threatening conditions.
Prevention
The best way to prevent ROP is to avoid premature birth. Healthcare providers recommend screenings for at-risk babies soon after birth.
Dr. Rohit Agrawal
MBBS, M.S (Gold medalist), FVRS
Vitreo-Retina, Uvea & ROP specialist
Book a session with Dr. Rohit Agrawal