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Lookup NU author(s): Dr Vrinda Nair, Dr Mithilesh Lal
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© 2022 Elsevier Ltd. Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a disease characterized by abnormal retinal vasculature in preterm infants. It is an important cause of visual disability in premature infants and although the incidence varies among different countries it is increasing as advances in neonatal care result in improved survival. Oxygen, growth factors like vascular endothelial growth factor, and poor postnatal growth play a significant role in the pathogenesis of ROP. Targeting lower oxygen saturation is associated with a reduction in ROP, but with increased mortality. Screening for ROP varies between centres and countries but generally it includes preterm infants (less than 32 weeks’ gestation) and/or those with a birth weight of less than 1500g. ROP has been recently reclassified as type-1-needing treatment and type-2 ROP needing observation, based on the benefits and treatment efficacy. Laser therapy and anti-VEGF are the two main treatments. Recent reports suggest that anti-VEGF therapy may have better visual outcomes (myopia) and a better safety profile. ROP is a global disease of prematurity and understanding the pathogenesis, course of ROP, preventive strategies, treatment options and outcomes are essential for all healthcare professionals caring for preterm babies. This short article describes the evidence for screening, prevention and treatment options and looks ahead to possible advances in the near future.
Author(s): Loganathan PK, Nair V, Lal MK
Publication type: Review
Publication status: Published
Journal: Paediatrics and Child Health
Year: 2022
Volume: 32
Issue: 9
Pages: 311-323
Print publication date: 01/09/2022
Online publication date: 13/08/2022
Acceptance date: 02/04/2018
ISSN (print): 1751-7222
ISSN (electronic): 1878-206X
Publisher: Churchill Livingstone
URL: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.paed.2022.07.001
DOI: 10.1016/j.paed.2022.07.001
