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Retinopathy of Prematurity

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Condition

Retinopathy of Prematurity

(ROP; Retrolental Fibroplasia; RLF)

Definition

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a rare eye disorder that happens in infants who are premature or have low birthweight. This problem happens when blood vessels in the tissue (retina) that lines the back of the eye grow abnormally. This can lead to vision problems. Early treatment can improve outcomes.

Normal Anatomy of the Eye.

Copyright © 2002 Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Causes

ROP happens when blood vessels in the retina do not develop as they should. It is not known why this happens in some infants.

Risk Factors

Things that may raise the risk of this problem are:

  • Premature birth , especially babies born before 28 weeks of pregnancy
  • Low birth weight, especially babies weighing less than three pounds
  • The use of supplemental oxygen, too much oxygen, or changing oxygen levels in the body
  • Low levels of insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) in the blood
  • High blood glucose
  • Poor nutritional status

Symptoms

There are usually no signs of ROP until it reaches a severe stage. Problems may be:

  • White pupils
  • Abnormal eye movements
  • Eyes that cross and turn toward each other

Diagnosis

An eye exam will be given to infants born prematurely or those with low birth weight. The retinas will be viewed. This is enough to make the diagnosis.

Treatment

Mild ROP will usually heal on its own. An eye doctor will watch for any changes during this time.

The goal of treating severe ROP is to lower the risk of the retina detaching and causing vision loss. Treatment options are:

  • Cryosurgery—freezing tissue in the eye to prevent the spread of abnormal blood vessels
  • Laser ablation/photocoagulation—using a laser to stop abnormal blood vessels from growing

Prevention

The best way to prevent ROP is to lower the risk of premature birth with good prenatal care.

RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

References

  • Retinopathy of prematurity. National Eye Institute website. Available at: http://www.nei.nih.gov/health/rop.
  • Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/retinopathy-of-prematurity-rop-20.

Contributors

  • Kari Kuenn, MD
Last Updated:
2022-08-01

(C) Copyright 2022 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.