Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)

Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP), also called Terry syndrome, is a disease of the eye affecting prematurely born babies, generally having received neonatal intensive care, in which oxygen therapy is used due to the premature development of their lungs. It is thought to be caused by disorganized growth of retinal blood vessels which may result in scarring and retinal detachment.

ROP can be mild and may resolve spontaneously, but it may lead to blindness in serious cases. All preterm babies are at risk for ROP, and very low birth-weight is an additional risk factor. Both oxygen and relative hypoxia can contribute to the development of ROP.

Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) is one of the most common causes of visual loss in preterm children and if not treated in proper time, may lead to lifelong vision loss and blindness. Hence, timely screening is the only method of early detection of ROP.

Causes and Risk factors

Various risk factors contribute to the development of ROP -

   Prematurity – Generally, babies born before 34 weeks (preterm) are at risk

   High exposure to oxygen – Exposure to Oxygen/Ventilator increases the risk of ROP

   Low birth weight – Babies having birth weight less than 2 kg are at risk of ROP

   Various types of infections - Babies, not necessarily premature, but who have suffered respiratory distress, blood transfusion, anemia or sepsis at birth are also at risk of having ROP

Prevention

   Safe delivery, high quality neonatal care

   Oxygen monitoring

   Control of infection

   Maintenance of Nutrition

   ROP screening, detection and treatment

Management of ROP

   Laser

   Injection (Intravitreal ANTI – VEGF)

   Surgery

   Regular follow up as per schedule by Ophthalmologist

Besides the above points, it is of the utmost importance that the Obstetrician, Neonatologists and Pediatricians are aware that ROP screening is mandatory for the babies at risk. Parents of the baby are also very important parts in the management of ROP. Hence, it is of utmost significance that proper awareness programs regarding Retinopathy of Prematurity are conducted from time to time by the relevant people. For the greater cause, Sri Sankaradeva Nethralaya is committed to conduct and participate in all kinds of awareness programs.