Retinal Disease
Retinopathy of Prematurity
Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) is an eye disease in some premature babies born before 31 weeks. It is a problem that affects the tissue at the back of the eye called the retina. With ROP, unwanted blood vessels grow in the baby’s retina. The blood vessels can cause serious eye and vision problems later.
Premature Infant Eye Care
ROP requires careful screening and follow-up.
ROP may not be apparent until several weeks after birth, which is why premature babies at risk should be examined and monitored closely.
Early screening is important for babies at risk for ROP.
Shortly after birth, all premature babies should be checked for ROP. Premature babies at risk for ROP should be examined again 4 to 6 weeks after birth.
About ROP
What Is Retinopathy of Prematurity?
Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) is an eye disease in some premature babies born before 31 weeks. It is a problem that affects the tissue at the back of the eye called the retina.
With ROP, unwanted blood vessels grow in the baby’s retina. The blood vessels can cause serious eye and vision problems later.
Why It Matters
ROP Can Affect Future Vision
Many mild cases of ROP can improve without treatment, but more advanced ROP may need treatment to help prevent the disease from getting worse and to help protect a child’s vision.
Careful follow-up helps the ophthalmologist determine whether the blood vessels are improving, staying stable, or need treatment.
Causes
ROP Causes
Doctors do not know for sure what causes ROP. Blood vessels in the eyes normally finish developing a few weeks before birth. Medicine, oxygen, bright lights, or temperature changes might affect how eye’s blood vessels develop.
Diagnosis
How Is ROP Diagnosed?
Shortly after birth, all premature babies should be checked for ROP. An ophthalmologist can examine the infant’s eyes while they are in the hospital. However, ROP might not be apparent until several weeks after birth. Therefore, premature babies at risk for ROP should be examined again 4 to 6 weeks after birth.
Ongoing Follow-Up
Because ROP can change as a baby grows, follow-up exams are important. The timing of follow-up depends on the baby’s age, eye findings, and the ophthalmologist’s recommendations.
Screening
Who Should Be Checked?
Premature babies, especially those born very early, may need ROP screening. The care team and ophthalmologist determine the appropriate screening schedule based on the baby’s risk factors.
Parent Guidance
Why Follow-Up Appointments Matter
ROP may improve, remain stable, or progress. Keeping recommended eye appointments allows the ophthalmologist to watch the retina closely and treat when needed.
Treatment
ROP Treatments
An ophthalmologist may treat the abnormal blood vessels with laser treatment, freezing treatment (cryotherapy), and/or medicated eye injections.
ROP Evaluation and Treatment
ROP care is focused on monitoring retinal blood vessel development and treating abnormal blood vessel growth when needed. Early diagnosis and timely treatment can help reduce the risk of serious vision problems.
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Our retina specialists provide evaluation and treatment for retinopathy of prematurity and other diseases affecting the retina, macula, and vitreous.