What is Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)?
Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) is one of the most significant health issues seen in premature infants. The blood vessels in a baby's eyes develop fully only by birth. In premature babies, this development is incomplete at birth, continuing after delivery. The high concentrations of oxygen given to premature infants to help them survive can cause abnormal development of the blood vessels in the eyes. As a result, the underdeveloped retinas in these infants may develop Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP), a condition that can lead to blindness in both eyes if not treated early. For this reason, premature babies must undergo eye exams by an ophthalmologist.
Which Babies Are Most at Risk for Retinopathy of Prematurity?
A normal pregnancy lasts 40 weeks or 280 days. If birth occurs before 37 weeks, the baby is considered premature. Babies weighing less than 2,500 grams are classified as low birth weight. Two-thirds of these babies are premature.
The group most at risk for Retinopathy of Prematurity is those born weighing less than 1,000 grams. Therefore, all babies born weighing less than 1,500 grams or before the 32nd week must undergo ROP screening. Early diagnosis and treatment of ROP in newborns are possible through collaboration between pediatricians and ophthalmologists specialized in this field. Additionally, conditions such as lung, cardiovascular issues, severe infections, and brain problems in newborns can increase the risk of retinopathy. While early detection allows for effective treatment, delays in treatment can lead to blindness in both eyes.
When Should Eye Exams Be Conducted for Newborns?
A comprehensive eye exam should be performed between 4 and 6 weeks after birth. ROP progresses through five stages, ranging from mild to severe. Treatment success depends on the stage of the disease. In the first two stages, monitoring may be sufficient, but from the third stage onward, laser and cryotherapy treatments should begin, as the best outcomes are achieved at this stage. In the fourth and fifth stages, surgical interventions are required, though successful outcomes are not always guaranteed. It is essential to perform eye exams for all newborns within the first month, not only for ROP but also to diagnose and treat other potential eye conditions, such as glaucoma, amblyopia, blocked tear ducts, and strabismus, in a timely manner.