Retinopathy of prematurity

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Retinopathy of prematurity

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a problem affecting the eyes of premature babies, especially those born at or before 28 weeks of pregnancy. As the immature retina continues to develop after premature birth, abnormal blood vessels can grow around its edges; in severe cases, the retina detaches from the eye.

The cause of ROP is poorly understood. Because too much or too little oxygen intake can worsen ROP, oxygen therapy for premature babies is carefully administered.

Retinopathy of prematurity can be mild and may heal on its own. Mild ROP may cause strabismus (misaligned eyes), nearsightedness, or both. In more severe cases, eye surgery is often necessary to prevent vision impairment or blindness.

Babies with ROP or who are at risk for ROP need to be checked frequently by an eye specialist (ophthalmologist). Many babies with ROP become nearsighted by age 2.

Credits

Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated	May 25, 2007

Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

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