This information supports, and does not replace, advice from your healthcare professional.
Overview
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a disorder of abnormal blood vessel development in the retina of premature infants, which can cause blindness if severe.
Symptoms
Often asymptomatic in early stages Abnormal eye movements or visual behaviors White pupils or retinal changes on screening
Causes
Premature birth Low birth weight High oxygen therapy in neonatal intensive care
Diagnosis
Regular ophthalmologic screening of preterm infants Retinal examination using indirect ophthalmoscopy
Treatment
Laser photocoagulation or cryotherapy for abnormal vessels Anti-VEGF injections in selected cases Follow-up monitoring for progression