Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP Screening)
Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) is a potentially serious eye condition affecting premature and low-birth-weight babies. It occurs due to abnormal retinal blood vessel development and can lead to permanent blindness if not detected early.
ROP often progresses silently in early stages, making timely screening absolutely essential.
Why ROP Screening Is Important
- ROP can progress rapidly in premature infants
- Early stages are treatable and reversible
- Delay may cause irreversible vision loss
- Screening enables early intervention
Which Babies Need Screening?
- Born before 34 weeks of gestation
- Birth weight below 2000 grams
- NICU admission or oxygen therapy
- Clinically unstable babies
When Is ROP Screening Done?
- At 4 weeks after birth, or
- 31 weeks post-conceptional age
- Follow-ups depend on severity & retinal maturity
How Is Screening Performed?
- Pupil dilation using eye drops
- Indirect ophthalmoscopy or digital imaging
- Performed safely in NICU or clinic
- Baby monitored throughout the procedure
Stages of ROP
ROP is classified into different stages based on severity:
- Stage 1 & 2: Mild ROP – usually resolves on its own
- Stage 3: Moderate ROP – may require treatment
- Stage 4 & 5: Severe ROP – retinal detachment with high risk of vision loss
Management & Treatment
Treatment depends on the stage and progression of ROP:
- Careful observation in early stages
- Laser therapy to abnormal retinal areas
- Intravitreal anti-VEGF injections
- Surgical intervention in advanced stages
Long-Term Follow-Up
Even after successful treatment, children with ROP require:
- Regular eye examinations
- Monitoring for refractive errors (glasses)
- Assessment for squint
- Management of lazy eye (amblyopia)
- Long-term vision care into childhood