Retinopathy of Prematurity
Also known as ROP, Premature Baby Retina Disease, Retrolental Fibroplasia, Preemie Eye Disease, Premature Retinopathy
Bottom Line
Retinopathy of prematurity is abnormal retina blood vessel growth in premature babies. Screening finds it early, before parents can see a problem.
Retinopathy of prematurity affects babies born very early or very small. Their retina blood vessels are still growing after birth 1.
Most mild cases improve with close monitoring. Severe disease can scar the retina and pull it loose, causing permanent vision loss 1.
Treatment may include laser or medicine injected into the eye. Early treatment of high-risk disease lowered poor vision and poor structure outcomes in a major trial 1.
Why Screening Matters
Parents usually cannot see early retinopathy of prematurity. The retina must be checked with a dilated exam.
Screening visits are timed so serious disease is found during the treatment window. Missing visits can let scar tissue form before anyone notices 2.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the zone, stage, and blood vessel appearance.
- Observation. Mild disease may improve on its own.
- Laser. Laser treats the unfinished outer retina.
- Injection medicine. Some severe cases are treated with medicine inside the eye.
- Surgery. Surgery may be needed if the retina starts to detach.
The Early Treatment for Retinopathy of Prematurity trial helped define which high-risk eyes need treatment 1.
Common Questions About Retinopathy of Prematurity
Next Steps
- 1Keep every scheduled retina screening visit.
- 2Call the neonatal team before canceling or delaying an eye appointment.
- 3Ask whether the retina is fully vascularized before screening stops.
- 4Save the discharge paperwork with eye follow-up dates.
- 5Seek emergency care for a newborn with red eye, discharge, or severe illness.
Find specialists for Retinopathy of Prematurity
Board-certified ophthalmologists who treat Retinopathy of Prematurity.
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