
Retinopathy of Prematurity
Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) is a condition affecting the retina, primarily in premature and low birth weight infants.Key Features:-
- Abnormal blood vessel growth (neovascularization) in the retina.
- Can progress to retinal detachment and potentially lead to blindness if untreated.
Timely screening and treatment are crucial to prevent severe vision loss in these vulnerable newborns.
Who Should Be Screened for ROP?
- Birth weight < 2000g
- Gestational Age: Less than 34 weeks
- At-Risk Infants (34-36 weeks gestation): Those with risk factors such as:
- Chronic Lung Disease
- Prolonged oxygen therapy
- Cardio respiratory support
- Respiratory distress syndrome
- Neonatal sepsis
- Blood transfusions
- Fetal haemorrhage
- Apneas or poor postnatal weight gain
Chronic lung disease
Prolonged oxygen therapy
Cardiorespiratory support
Respiratory distress syndrome
Neonatal sepsis
Blood transfusions
Fetal haemorrhage
Apneas or poor postnatal weight gain
- Infants with a complex clinical course identified by a neonatologist or pediatrician should also be screened.
When to Screen?
- First Screening: At 4 weeks postnatal age (PNA) for most infants.
- For High-Risk Neonates (gestational age < 28 weeks or birth weight < 1200g): Screening should be done earlier, around 2-3 weeks PNA.
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Book My AppointmentRisk Factors
Premature birth
Low birth weight
High exposure to oxygen
Sepsis/ Infection
Anemia
Cardiac defects
Multiple blood transfusion
Respiratory distress syndrome
Frequently Asked Question
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What is ROP, and why is screening necessary for premature babies?
ROP is a potentially blinding eye disorder affecting premature infants. Screening is crucial to detect and address it in its early stages.
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When should ROP screening begin?
Screening typically starts when a premature baby reaches about 4-6 weeks of age or at 31 weeks postmenstrual age, whichever comes first.
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How is ROP screening conducted?
Screening involves a dilated eye exam by an ophthalmologist who evaluates the blood vessels in the retina for signs of ROP.
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Who performs ROP screening?
ROP screening is conducted by trained ophthalmologists.
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How often does a premature baby need ROP screening?
The frequency of screenings depends on the baby's gestational age, birth weight, and the presence or absence of ROP during previous exams.
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What are the risk factors for developing ROP?
Premature birth, low birth weight, oxygen therapy, sepsis and prolonged mechanical ventilation are common risk factors for ROP.
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What happens if ROP is detected during screening?
The severity of ROP determines the appropriate intervention, which may include monitoring, laser therapy, or other surgical procedures.
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Is ROP treatable, and can the vision loss be prevented?
Early detection and intervention significantly improve outcomes. Treatments aim to prevent progression and reduce the risk of vision impairment.
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Can ROP resolve on its own?
In some cases, mild ROP may resolve without intervention. However, close monitoring is essential to identify any progression.
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Are there long-term effects of ROP?
Severe cases of ROP can lead to vision impairment or blindness. Long-term effects depend on the severity and management of the condition.
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Can ROP affect babies born at full term?
While ROP is more common in premature infants, it can occasionally occur in full-term babies with certain health conditions.
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Are there preventive measures for ROP?
Ensuring optimal prenatal care, minimizing risk factors, and following a neonatal care plan can help reduce the risk of ROP.